The 23rd Psalm -- "He Makes Me Lie Down"

The 23^rd Psalm

“He makes me lie down in green pastures” (Ps. 23:2) Part 1

Sheep are fickle, timid, fearful, restless and stupid. It is almost impossible to make them lie down in restful posture unless they are free from fear, tension, aggravations, and hunger. Are we as humans any different?

   The Christian life is full of hazards and troubles. We live in an uncertain troublesome world. Every day brings new problems and challenges. Many of us live either with a sense of anxiety, fear, and foreboding, or in a sense of quiet rest. Which is it for you? What is our tendency when panic sets in, or the unexpected happens? Or when cruel circumstances arise? Or when fear overcomes us? Often our first impulse is simply to get up and run from them. If you have ever experienced these issues, you know the only solution is the presence of the Shepherd.

   When the sheep are fearful and running for their lives the Shepherd comes into their midst and quiets them down. His presence makes all the difference. Suddenly, things aren’t half as bad as they seemed. A calmness of spirit takes over. Fear subsides as we submit to the will of the shepherd. Instead of fear there is hope.

   As I grow older and more mature, the knowledge that my Master, my Friend, my Shepherd has everything under His control, even in the midst of the calamities, brings calm and quietness to my timid heart by pointing me to His word.

   The Apostle Paul’s protégé, Timothy, was a very timid young man. Paul encouraged him by saying, “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.” (2 Tim. 1:7)

   The Psalmist wrote, “In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:8)

   Jesus is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for the sheep. Put your trust in Him and “He will make you lie down in green pastures.”

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for giving me hope and peace.