Beside Peaceful Waters

Psalm 23 GW says, “The Lord is my shepherd. I am never in need. He leads me beside peaceful waters. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage. You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows. Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life and I will remain in the Lord’s house for days without end.”

This chapter in Psalms resonates very deeply in my soul because I am tired. Really, really tired. 

Yesterday, during our normal Psalm readings of the day, we came across Psalm 23. So often, in the morning, my mind is focused on school. It is focused on everything that I have to do throughout the day, what time certain things are, and what my evening looks like after school.
There are many times in my life when God just really catches me off guard, and this time He did. But what better way to do so than right in the thick of my chaos and exhaustion?

In the NIV version of this verse, the author talks about how God makes us lie down in green pastures. It makes my soul sing knowing that even when life is crazy and we don’t set aside time to rest, He does. He does so for us in our place. He prepares a place and time for us to rest— even if it means forcing us to do so. 

Isn’t that beautiful to think about?

That God, in everything that He has to do everyday, prepares a place and a time for us to rest?

I am so thankful that this coming week is that for me. I feel as if at any moment, I could fall apart. I could crash in my own exhaustion. Have you ever seen those funny Barbie teacher memes with the messy hair and smeared makeup? Yes— that is me! I am a firm believer that there is no tired like teacher tired!

I pray that during this time, your soul is finding time to rest. Allow God to lead you beside still waters and lie with you in green pastures.
Take a seat and rest, Sister. There is hope for your weary soul!

Much love,
​Mallory​