When I was in high school, my mom and I lived in a one bedroom apartment together. She slept in the living room, so when I would go out at night, I had to pass by her in order to leave. There she lay on the couch. Silent. The room dark except for the glare of the television. For as long as I had been aware, my mother had a broken heart, and I never saw it more clearly than I did on those nights walking out of our home and leaving her there to fester in her despair alone.
The darkness that enveloped my mom was deep and impenetrable. The eyes of her heart had adjusted to the absence of light, and she passively accepted the pall that hung over her life.
I recognized the despondency in my mother’s empty gaze, and I heard the desolation in her voice. My mom—like so many people—had set up camp in the valley of the shadow of death. She didn’t know it yet, but she needed a shepherd to guide her out of her umbral existence and to lead her to living water.
Today’s septet of psalms offer a powerful picture of the kind of shepherd that my mom didn’t even know she needed and the kind of hope we all desire.
God is so beautifully characterized here that we are compelled simply to cry out, “Glory!” along with all those gathered in the sanctuary of His Holy presence (Psalm 29). It is clear that God, our shepherd, is in the business of rescuing the lost, vindicating the broken, and restoring life to the dead.
My mom stared at a glowing screen in the darkness of those long lonely nights, bereft of all hope and enrobed in the unholy vestments of her tenebral despair. Praise God that she encountered Jesus years later—only eight weeks before her death. Simply being near Him, contemplating the Lord Himself instead of gazing vacantly into an unplumbable abyss—this nearness to Jesus in her final days altered the trajectory of eternity for her.
I am comforted even now as I consider the reality that she confessed with her lips that Jesus was Lord, and that in her heart she declared: “The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom should I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—whom should I dread?” (Psalm 27:1).
For her and for all of us, there is no darkness the light of Jesus cannot illuminate, no life too far gone for His salvation to reach.
This Lenten season, let us be refreshed by the light of the Lord and be bold in our willingness to share the good news far and wide. We may not see it in the light of day, but the darkness within the people we meet may be silently, imperceptibly crushing their hearts. Praise the Lord, and do not let His light within you remain hidden.
Written by Alex Florez
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164 thoughts on "Psalms 23–29"
Jesus gives to us which we don’t deserve and He LOVE and He is close to the broken heartened✝️✝️❤️❤️
Amen! When I am having a bad POTS flare up I quote the lord is my shepherd scripture on repeat
Thank you for this post. I need this reminder for my daughter today as we are walking through deep depression with her.
This testimony gives me hope for my parents!!!
Amen. This was so hard but so exciting to read. I’m one of those people who is living in darkness but have a smile on my face and LOVE JESUS so no one would know. It’s been really hard but I am praying for His light to breakthrough this season. Prayers for all the darkness surrounding.
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oh, thank you so much for reminding me, to let the light of Christ shine to those around me, how fervently I desire for family to knhe greatness of His love and I have the Lord. Forgive me Lord for the times I have squandored Your light for my benfit, help me to let Your light shine in their darkness and to be bold to take every opportunity given to share the good news. Amen
God rescues the lost and brings the dead to life!
He truly is our light, and the light of the world.
No matter what happens God remains in control and is on His throne.
What a stunningly good devotional to accompany Psalms like a balm to my heart! Very timely for me- i was literally jus confessing to God before reading this that I am afraid- I am afraid of making a wrong choice in my career while faced with a potential new opportunity, afraid of failure, afraid of being overwhelmed, afraid of letting my family down. But I should not fear with the Lord as my shepherd. Good to see you all!
May the Lord be with you in your decision and may He give you clarity..
Much love to you and yours Victoria..
Little man, must be at uni now :)❤️
Agreeing in prayer with Tina! ❤ Great to see you ‘little sister’!
If you haven’t listened to Still Waters by Leanna Crawford i definitely recommend it. It’s based on Psalms 23 and helps you memorize if you haven’t yet . My favorite line int he song is “‘Cause anxiety hates Psalms 23”
If you have never listened to “the house of god forever” by Jon Foreman- I highly encourage it with this deck today
I have been praying for a word from the Lord. In the toddler trenches I don’t have any silence to hear him, like I used to, and I just keep saying please let me know what you want to do, I can’t see your direction anymore. I know He is moving and I don’t want to miss the boat. I want to be involved! and I heard him say “Hold the line”. I have NO IDEA what this means in my day to day life, but when I opened the psalms today, psalm 27 “my stronghold” really stuck out. HE is the stronghold. holding the line for me is waiting. I am certain that I will see the Lords goodness in the land of the living. wait for the Lord. be strong, and let your heart be courageous. wait for the Lord.
Than you for sharing this! What a blessing to me to hear your words. I too am in the toddler trenches. And it is so very hard. God is our stronghold! Praise the lord.
To both yourself, Lanie and Shelby… He is near and for sure your stronghold.. Hold fast.❤️❤️
Hold the line- I love that, Lanie!!! ❤
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I chose Psalm 29:11 as my verse today. It really stood out to me. I love that God doesn’t just give strength for what we’re facing, He also gives peace in the middle of it. I find that especially comforting right now ❤️
I really see the heartache you witnessed with your mom and I’ve seen my own mom do the same at times. I saw her drag her immense hurt and pain to the cross grieving for missed moments she had. And hurts me to this day, her grief. I feel I carry for her now somehow seeing it as a woman is different. But one thing I’ve learned through her and through these psalms and all psalms really is that there is no emotion, no pain, no anguish that you can’t bring to God and none that are too heavy and insurmountable to Him who is above all and in all things. I’ve literally pray read psalms with tears running down my face knowing God is hearing me and knowing I am seen and my mother was seen and heard by God. We all are and that is a call for comfort in a compassionate all knowing and all powerful God.
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❤️❤️❤️So good!!
Incredible Psalms truly some of the best. Amidst health issues I will not fear but allow my Shepherd to make me lie down in green pastures. Praying for all
Praying for you too Civana.(beautiful name)❤️❤️
I found myself holding on to every detail of the devotional. The trauma of a child witnessing that kind of prolonged despair is so heavy and real. It’s clear that those years in the dark left a mark, but it’s also clear that God’s grace is a quiet resilient restorative force. Thank you ALEX FlOREZ. You’ve shown that even when our circumstances give us not much to hope for, the Word provides a ladder out of the pit. Thank you for sharing such a vulnerable truth. I love these verses and reminder “The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant” (Psalm 25:14), “ Who is this person who fears the Lord? He will show him the way he should choose” (Psalm 25:12). Friendship with God in the Old testament is for limited people of faith and leadership, Abraham, Moses. But with Jesus, we have a new status, “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” John 15:15. A servant just does what he’s told without needing to know why. A friend is told the “Why.” Jesus shares the secrets of the Kingdom with us. This friendship wasn’t free. Jesus says in the verse before (John 15:13) “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends”. He bought our friendship with His life. He truly pursues us to have a friendship with us. I don’t think any friends I ever have on earth will ever pursue me this way. Thank you Jesus for your grace and sacrifice. He is so faithful. Praying over your prayers. Be blessed dear sisters.
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Mercy, ❤️
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I have just returned from 8 days in Guatemala with my church. The first few days were really rough on my, and looking back, I think it is because we had several families traveling with their young children. To see families participating together on a mission trip was an absolutely beautiful experience, but it was also heartbreaking because it reminded me of what I missed out on in my own family and what I wish I could have been able to give my own kids. Now, my challenge is to meet my kids where they are in their faith journeys (which is mostly running away), and to bear witness to them of my faith and trust the Holy Spirit to do what was never my job in the first place. And that requires some serious walking by faith.
❤❤❤ Welcome back, Margaret!
Margaret where did you go in Guatemala? I just got back from Honduras on a missions trip with my church and am possibly heading to Guatemala in April.
An orphanage called Casa Bernabé on the outskirts of Guatemala City
Margaret, i have learnt thst life is about seasons. We are not always able to give to our children as others do, because our journeys are different. Do not bear yourself up over the families you were with, but as you say.. meet then now where theyy are and by actions and example show them the way back to our Father God.. He is your Shepherd.. He is with you..❤️
Let Gods light shine through you everyday all day long. Never let that light go dim or out!!
“I have asked one thing from the Lord;it is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, gazing on the beauty of the Lord and seeking him in his temple.” ❤️
Today in RI we are in the middle of a blizzard, all interstates closed, bridges that connect our islands closed, visibility zero at times, plows can’t plow. As I sit in my home, it’s like being in a snow globe. My prayers today are for the homeless that may not have gone to the many shelters last night, the first responders, the medical staff that are probably going to have to do a second shift and the plow drivers. We still have a lot of snow from our storm 3 weeks ago, but this is much worse.
A prayer also for each of your needs.
Prayers for the safety of all! My son is in West Warwick, he said it was snowing sideways!…We have gotten 12+ inches here in NJ and it’s still snowing. I watched 2 different plow trucks get stuck in the snow and it made me wonder, what if someone needed emergency help – how would the get it?? May God have His hand on us all as we maneuver through the blizzard of 26′.
Oh my.. i shant be complaining about the rain here!
Praying for all out in this blizzard, be they emergency services or the vulnerable..Lord, be with them where they are.. keep them safe and protected, warm and hopeful, sheltered and accessible..
Lord, in your mercy hear our prayers. ❤️
Amen! ❤
There are so many things to take away from these Psalms – and so many “go to” verses in these chapters!
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→Psalm 23 – With the LORD as my shepherd, there is NOTHING that I lack!
→Psalm 24 – “Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong & mighty!
→Psalm 25:1 – “In you, LORD my God I put my trust.”
→Psalm 26:2 (which is much the same as 139:23,24) Test me, LORD, and try me, examine my heart and mind…”
→Psalm 27:1 (my favorite for many years!) The LORD is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear.
→Psalm 28:1 – To you LORD, I call; you are my rock..
→Psalm 29:11 – The LORD gives strength to His people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. (John 14:27)
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And then the devotional…
…”this nearness to Jesus in her final days altered the trajectory of eternity for her.”
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“Altering” the trajectory of one’s life. All it takes is turning from darkness to light, turning from self to Jesus. It seems so simple.
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Before anyone can turn to Jesus, they must hear of Him. How will they hear without a preacher? (Romans 10:14) – We must bear the light of Christ, we must share the gospel with the lost. Jesus is their only hope. I confess, I don’t do it enough. I have failed in this so many times. But I want that to change, starting today. I do not want the light that is in me to remain hidden. God has been so wonderfully good to me, so merciful, so loving. Even in my rebellious years as a youth, I felt His presence. Praise be to the Lord!
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Father God please help me to make known the splendor of your holiness, your goodness, mercy and grace. Let my light shine that others may see it. Let me be bold to speak the truth in love, from my heart. There are so many that are lost and without hope. May you use me to share the hope of Jesus Christ, and to You be the glory. In Jesus Name.
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@Meagan C – I have been praying for you since this journey began, way back in March of last year. I am so sorry that you are feeling so alone. I know exactly what you are going through as I experienced it when we moved here 32 years ago. The loneliness was so great at times I felt I couldn’t bear it. All I wanted was friends. In time it did happen but in the waiting, God didn’t change my circumstances but He did do a work in me. I encourage you to not give up. Get involved where you can, be the friend that you would want and let God do the rest. He may not give you a ton of friends, but a few really good ones is all you need. I will continue to pray. Sending love and hugs. ❤️
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Happy Monday She’s – If you’re in the north east – stay safe! ❤️
AMEN Sharon! Great summations. Great Prayer! And to Meagan…yes, I remember the looking for a house and the move—It does take time Meagan! But having a toddler is actually the easiest way to make conversations and to start connecting with people. Especially at church! Have you found a church? I am so curious where you moved to from where! Are you on our FB page?!
sharon! every day the verse I have meditated on is about boasting in the Lord, sharing the Lord, and every day I have started the day with in one of my interactions today let me boast in the Lord. and then I have been so discouraged when I get to the end of the day and I didn’t. so I’m with you in the failing in this. but I will keep trying. it’s no coincidence that’s what keeps sticking out to me. also! I missed meagan cs story but feels like I can relate!! I am soo craving some mom friends, and it has been so hard!! its one of the reasons I’m back here on this thread bc I have just missed the communion. praying with you and for you meagan!
We need to encourage Meagan C to join the Facebook group so you 2 can connect! ❤ I’m not a young mom, but would be hapoy to connect in person. You have my contact info in messenger, I think! If not I can share it there.
Thank you so much Cee Gee! I will post in Facebook Cee Gee!
Hu Lanie! I will be praying for you! Maybe we can connect in the Facebook group.
Thank you ladies for all your prayers. It’s so humbling and healing to know you are praying for me! I will put a post in the Facebook group today.
“We may not see it in the light of day, but the darkness within the people we meet may be silently, imperceptibly crushing their hearts.” This is such a great reminder to always be gentle and kind to all those we come across, because we never know what they have been/are currently going thru. There was a woman on our trip, “J”, who had a strong personality and rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. I can be tempted to stay away but I took the time to get to know her and hear her story and wow! I was blown away. She grew up in China and because she was a girl with no value, was kicked out of her house at 14 and lived on her own from that point on. Her mother threw her baby sister in the river because she was of no “value” as a girl. Her dad had been a POW of the Japanese and came back an alcoholic and almost strangled her to death. But the Lord got a hold of her heart and saved her. Now she is a pediatrician and her love for the children in Honduras was so evident. Some of you may have read that I was struggling with comparing myself to others on the trip. There were 2 women who I had high on a pedestal. The day after I posted, we were all sitting together for breakfast. One of the women I had held on a pedestal did not agree with “J” over something and cut her done verbally, out of nowhere it seemed. It was so awkward for the rest of us and it went on and on. “J” held herself so graciously while being attacked. This was so bad even in non-Christian circles people who have been horrified. I can’t help but think that God wanted me to see this to correct some of my thinking and comparing.
Oh Tami, what a great share that is…we just don’t know what people have gone through. I try to remember everyone has a story, and could be going through something currently or in the past, but it’s so easy to forget. Many of our butterflies are so easy to label addicts, and of their own choices…yet when you hear the stories of molest, abuse, toxic homes or kicked out like your lady…oh how that leads to the bad choices of masking. We ALL do it, cope, how we can. Sometimes grabbing not knowing the consequences.
And your “awareness” of the lady you thought highly up, that’s such a good reminder as well!! We all are being sanctified and learning…all on our own road, own speed, wrecks and fender-bender. But to help them, or get help ourselves..is the way to go.
I am so glad you had such an “eventful” trip!! I would encourage you to write these examples down in your journal! Do you have a “Hondurans Trip” journal? It would be fun to see the changes in YOU with all your trips, and your growth, and impact!! :)
Tami, everything you said is so true. Especially the part of not knowing what someone else is going or has gone through. Praise God for the work He has been doing in your heart and that you took the time to get to know “J”. I’m horrified that “J” was treated as she was simply for stating her opinion on something. Christians can be really cruel to one another, which is heart-breaking in itself. Continued prayers for you as you serve Him in Honduras, may you come away changed for His glory and ready to face the world back home. ❤️
Welcome back Tami, and just wow ❤️
Oh my.. i shant be complaining about the rain here!
Praying for all out in this blizzard, be they emergency services or the vulnerable..Lord, be with them where they are.. keep them safe and protected, warm and hopeful, sheltered and accessible..
Lord, in your mercy hear our prayers. ❤️
Tami, first and foremost.. welcome back!
What a trip, huh.?
Isn’t it funny how God works? And how HE opens our eyes to what He needs us to see, in the case of ‘J’, the one you/we would normally avoid.. her story.. wow.. and those we put on pedestals..
Glad, I am sure you have many takeaways from this trip, all i pray, God involved and for sure, has changed you a little bit more..❤️
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God I pray that I do not Your presence in me be hidden. Help me to be bold to share the good news. I know that I was despondent at one time and cried out to you. And you heard my cry. You have given me peace, joy, strength, courage and so much more. I want that for all.
Amen!
Amen Traci!
Amen!❤️
In Psalms 23:3, This verse, He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Sometimes we just need our soul restored. Today sad I read these Psalms, that is what happened. I acknowledged that I need that to God, and as I
I’m sorry that you were sad today Cheryl. Praying for you. ❤️
I read this devotion while I look out at Pikes Peak. “ who may send the Mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? Those who has clean hands and a pure heart who has not appealed to what is false”
Beautiful amen! p.s. I know that mountain ;-)
Wow, that must be amazing! Are you on the FB page – can you post a photo? What a vivid image while reading the Word!
I have a CD by Nicole C. Mullen titled, “Talk About It”. Psalm 27 is on it. (The track is titled, simply, “#27”.) I could hear her “read” it in her voice while I was reading. I will be listening to that CD today.
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A whaaaat, some younger sisters may be asking… at least I didn’t say cassette tape or 8-track tape! Heeheehee!
Was anyone else’s heart breaking reading the introduction of this reading? Oh my….my heart ached and I kept wanting to get to the end in hopes of this mom would come to know JESUS! And at first I didn’t know who was writing this till the end! Thank you JESUS this mom our writer’s, Alex Florez mom came to know JESUS even if it was towards the end of her life. I may have shared this years ago, but worth sharing again, God gets ALL the glory. I was married in my early 20’s and was divorced within two years, his choice. My MNL back then did not like me very much. BUT GOD…a few years later I get a phone call from my SNL that she my ex MNL wanted to see me. She was near her death (cancer) and she asked for forgiveness for what her son had done to me and asked forgiveness herself. WOW! My heart! I told her it was not her fault. I don’t remember the rest of the conversation, but I remember leaving with a Joy in my heart knowing where she is now as she passed away shortly after that.
Thank you for sharing that, Mari! So sad when someone dies without the Lord but so joyful when they come to know Jesus (even at the end of their life).
I thought the same in reading the devotional. So, so, so sad. The sadder part is that’s how many people live today – those without Christ and without hope.
But God…
That’s an amazing, good ending testimony! Thank you for sharing. ❤️
GM ladies. Back safe and sound from Honduras just in the nick of time! Thank God our return flight was Saturday or our team of 50 would have been stranded in Miami! Here is the updates list of prodigals. I’m continuing to believe for testimonies from our prayers. God knows every name on the list, even if we don’t.
Acts 2:39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
Acts 26:18:… open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God’s people, who are set apart by faith in me.
Jeremiah 31:16-17 But now this is what the Lord says: “Do not weep any longer, for I will reward you,” says the Lord. “Your children will come back to you from the distant land of the enemy.17 There is hope for your future,” says the Lord.“Your children will come again to their own land.”
Proverbs 20:7 The righteous who walks in his integrity— blessed are his children after him.
Alice V – Brian, Rachel
Kim Mullins – Tyler
Tami – Chela, Quentin
Sharon – Nicholas, Jonathan
Rebecca W – Brett, Jake, Joey, Lindsay, Kelly, Abby, Katelyn, Katie
Emma Rageth – Olivia, Ali
Indiana Elaine – Kent, Shelley
Mari V – Rick, Marta, Toby
Tricia C – David, Allison, Christopher, Lina, Travis, Nicole
Mia Faith – Parker, Isaiah, Alexandra, Griffin, Annalee, Bill
Aleida – Victor
Maddie – Michelle, Julia
Rhonda – Michael
Charlotte Hill – Casey, John, Emma
Deb – Brandon, Angel
Linda J – Matthew
Mollie – Sam
MMD – Ethan, Hayden, Rachel
Carol H – Justin, Ezekiel, Elijah, Andrew
Kari – Rachel, Josh, James, Ayano
Mi Sherry – Kaitlyn, Aaron, Will
Cheryl Read – Renee, Jason, Kayden, Kylee
Wendy B – Amy, Colton, Kirk, Nick
Anne Klinkhammer – Molly
Sue Dalos – Chelsea, Kenny
Bessie – Ben
Annie Hewitt – Annie pls give me name/s:)
Sandy Lynn – Andy
Diane – Jon, Keith, Roger, Mike
Jane K – Leah
B – M, B
Susan B – Tammy, Amy
Carla – Cierra, Stephen
Lisa H – Cora
Kimberk – Megan, Randy
Adrienne – Raelynn, Tyler, Tracy
Brandi – Levi, Sarah, Ellen, India
Robin Bailey – Rodney, Brian
Erin L – Emerson, Zoe
Janet – Ryan, Amanda, Matthew, Stephanie
Sheryl – Adam, LaShonda
Maria J – Benjamin, Mike, Mark, Patrick
Maria B – Chris, Tristan, Madeline, Cristal, Shanty, Nicole, Luis
Melani Fryer – Matthew, Dylan, Courtney, Lydia
Therese – Ryan, Brittany, Sydney
Traci Gendron – Kara, Andrew
Jenny Carmichael – Katy
Mercy – boys in social care system
Kerry Rowley – Preston, Parker, Lindsey
Maria S – Joshua, Katie, Zoe
Melissa – Madison, Richard, Liam, Zac, Wesley
Felicia – Brittin, Tyler
Vicki – Ben, Sian
TC – Randi, Michael, Callie
Elizabeth – Trae, Xavier, Reya
Adie – Monica, Shawn, Stephanie
Susan B – Emma
Penni – Les, Jonah, Emily, Garret, Domi, Connor, Grace
Nat – Marissa, Melody
Martha Hix – Claire, Ralph, Tyler, Whitney, Trey
Phobie – Phobie, Greg, Steve, Jessie
Laura – Jordan, Taliah
April L – Molly, Becca
Karen Breaux – Brittany, Justin, Erin, Jordyn
Heather – Jack, Hudson
Cheryl Blow – Sara
Dianne – Ian
Leap – Liz, Teg, Taylor, Alison
Thank you!
Glad you made it home safe!
Praying for all the prodigals.
Welcome home and praise God for the safe and timely return!
Tami, can you please add Stephen, Meagan, Daniel, and Creg? Thank you
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Where have I camped out? Hmmm…My tent needs to go!
Goodness, this devotional today left me in tears. What a heavy weight this high school boy carried, seeing his Mom existing, but not living. I breathed a sigh of relief at the end when he said she found Jesus. ❤️
There is just SO much in these chapters today but the timing of beginning a new week in Psalm 23 is a beautiful reminder and promise that the Lord is our Shepherd. And that is just the beginning. To name a few others….He leads, he guides, he guards, he is the King of glory. He teaches, he forgives, he rescues, he is light and salvation, he keeps us safe. He is goodness, he is our Rock, our strength, our sheild, our fortess. His voice is powerful, mighty, majestic and he is peace.
These are no small words/ways to describe our awesome God.
From about age 4-5 and then thru all my older daughters growing up years that she lived at home, Psalm 25:4-5 was a life verse and I prayed it over her every night. It is still often one of my prayers for her, her family and for myself. I do prefer the NIV version. :)
Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths, guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are my God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Psalm 25:4-5
All of these are my hearts longing and desire, Lord. We praise you for who you are. May we rest in the assurance of these today and be bold in proclaiming the hope and truth of who He is to those around us. Amen❤️
Yes Lord take us by the hand and walk us down the path of truth!
This is one of my “go to” verses too!
Did you drive back okay Wendy? It was very cold last week with so much snow and i am just wondering :)
Yes Mercy, thank you for asking. I did share an update. We had to leave early and 5 of our 8.5 hour drive was just awful road conditions but PTL we made it home safely.❤️
Awesome Wendy…thank you for the update❤️
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Today’s devotional is hard. My mom died Easter weekend of 2018 after years of mental health struggles and alcohol addiction. She loved Jesus but life took its toll. So many sad days line up with this Lenten season and it can be easy for me to feel stuck in the past. Psalm 27 will be what I repeat today- I will wait for the Lord and be courageous. I will remember and be thankful that my mom already dwells in the house of the Lord and she is gazing on the beauty of the Lord in his presence today!
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“I will remember and be thankful that my mom already dwells in the house of the Lord and she is gazing on the beauty of the Lord in his presence today!” Amen! and Praise the Lord! ❤️
Time is short so my comment will be, too!
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John MacArthur notes on Psalm 27:
This psalm is characterized by strong contrasts such as lament and laud; persecution and praise; plus warfare and worship. In Ps. 27, the psalmist, in the presence of his LORD, engages in 3 conversations which help him balance the ups and downs of real life.
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How smart of David to trust in God so completely that more than once he stresses that he WILL see the goodness of God this side of Heaven.
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SONG SHARE: (sharing again because Alex’s devo brought it screaming to my mind!)
LOST – Steph Macleod & Pat Barrett (Music Video)
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
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Please pray that a medical procedure will reveal if a serious issue exists or help doc to form a management plan if needed. Thank you! ❤
Praying
Praying
Praying for your procedure. ❤️
Praying ❤️
Praying Cee Gee. Hugs and love.
praying
Praying ❤️
Thank you, sisters, so much!!! I love you all and can feel those prayers! ❤❤❤
I pray the procedure helped provide clarity for next steps.
As I start the custody process for my nieces and nephew, I certainly feel there are many times I’ve been in the shadow of the valley of death. Knowing that the Lord is my shepherd and that he can strengthen me even when my enemies meeting those who wish harm to me and the kids, will not prevail because I am moving forward with integrity, is exactly the encouragement I need right now. Please pray for Grace, favor, finances and for me to fully depend on God as I go through the unique journey. Glory to God in advance!
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What a huge commitment to be taking on! May God give you all that you are petitioning Him for. Much prayers! ❤️
Psalm 27 is my favorite song, especially verse 4. The imagery of that moment, always settles with me and just gives me such a sense of comfort. But until that day comes I will continue to look up on the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living and hold onto that thought.
On a separate note— Please keep my pastor in your prayers. Over the past few weeks, he has been speaking openly—always in a very respectful way—about the situation here in Minnesota and about how, in moments like this, we are called to be the image-bearers of Christ. He’s reminded us that we should show compassion to our neighbors and to those who are hurting right now. He’s also spoken honestly, without any agenda, about how our faith should not be tied to politics, because our kingdom is God’s kingdom, not any political party.
Unfortunately, some people in the church were upset by this and have asked him to resign. This is a man who has devoted 15 years to our church and has led us through the greatest growth we’ve experienced. He is a teacher to us, kind, and transparent about where Jesus is leading him and the direction he feels our church should go.
Yesterday he addressed the situation again in a very respectful way, but you could tell that the criticism and the calls for him to resign have really hurt his heart—and it broke mine to see that.
Please keep him, and all the pastors in my church, in your prayers.
Praying for him!
Maria I’ve heard a similar story in Colorado. It hurts my heart for these pastors. They devote there lives to the church. And to immediately call for them to resignation seems harsh because they don’t like what he has to say. There should be a conversation about it.
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God I pray that I do not let you let in me be hidden. Help me to be bold to share the good news. I know that I was despondent at one time and cried out to you. And you heard my cry. You have given me peace, joy, strength, courage and so much more. I want that for all.
That second half was for my comment. I was interrupted and didn’t realize I was still on your responding to your comment.
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As a pastor’s wife, I can feel the pain that he feels from the criticism. My husband takes the same stance on not letting our faith be tied to politics. From our own experiences – you are criticized if you say nothing, and you are if you say something. It’s just another tool of Satan to divide the church and interrupt the true agenda – the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I am so sorry for what he is going through and for your church and your state. Continued prayers for you all. ❤️
I believe I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Clinging on to that today.
Amen. ❤️
The devotion today…gutted. And I just realized it was from a man, which, seemed to give more sorrow. How hard to watch despondency from a mother, and not even be able to make sense of it. But, yet in our older lives we all know of those that just seem lost, void of light, without hope, without joy and peace.
One of my favorite things in jail ministry is to see the transformation in our butterflies. Just like the worms that are surrounded in a dark web, they come in shell shocked of their circumstance, not able to do anything about it. They are stuck and helpless…in a wait, life frozen, lost. Some lose it and cry heavily or slowly, some are quiet, some have eyes of questions seeking, some are despondent. But God…his pull is real. His work is active. His love overwhelms and breaks through. In their desperation they reach for him in scripture or prayers. And slowly, just like the butterfly…we can’t see it happening, yet God is transforming the heart!!
An like Alex Flores says “there is No darkness the light of Jesus cannot illuminate, no life too far gone for His salvation to reach!! Let US be willing to share the good news WE have!! It is amazing to GET to be a part of the transformation. The seeds, the watering…the harvest!!! What a J.O.Y!!! I think often of the moms to these ladies we get to encounter each week, and how thankful they must be of a program like ours. But the same is true for any mom of a prodigal- they hope and pray SOMEONE can be the one to lead, help, listen, or shine light to their lost one. Sometimes it’s God alone, but mostly he uses his people.
And even when we walk through our own valleys and shadows of death, how truly wonderful when our Christ-following sisters swoop in quick and fast to help us!! It is the love of his children that is so powerful. I am so grateful for a friend that was there to listen, encourage, and point me back to God!! My other friends were there for me, but their way of dealing with heartbreak was not the right way. It caused more heartbreak…covered with the devil’s light. In the dark it was tempting…and in the morning light always brought regrets and sorrow. That’s a solid reason to make sure WE are there FOR those in a struggling season to keep pointing to OUR Refuge, our fortress, our strong foundation. In doubt they will run from God or run to God. Grab their hand and don’t let them escape! lol.
Thank you Jesus for sending the right people to help me in my broken season, and for YOU, LORD, shining your light back in me…slowly. Because if it would have been quick like I begged, I surely wouldn’t have such a great gratitude. For the walks in the valleys, the season on our knees…our indeed working for our good. I sing Glory! I shout Glory!! I clap and sing in Glory for You Lord!! Great is thy faithfulness. May I hunger for you all the days of my life and magnify your Glory!! With your Son, I am yours, your child, and oh how precious it is. Guide and direct us with your Sovereign Mercy and Grace. Today and all the days ahead! Amen.
I think of the song “Even If” by Mercyme.
Yesterday, one of my butterflies came by and hung out most of the day. I can’t help but think back of the several Wednesdays she was in class and also had written to me of the sadness of losing her mom a few years ago. And I prayed Lord, let me be able to fill that void just a little bit, and help her raise her daughter in church, and be a mentor. Yesterday felt like a mom and daughter hanging out…practicing our knitting, feeding her, and giving her things to take home (clothes and a plant, and cookies). And my husband was even checking the lights on her car, caring as a dad does in that way). I have met her little precious 3 year old as well, and have overflowed with tears as I see them praising and worshiping at church next to me. It is AMAZING how God works!! What a praise!! There are many hurting ladies that need someone to come in and guide and pray for them..(I think of Kelly Neo’s young momma)!
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What a change in life for her. To feel so cared for and loved.
Praise the Lord Rhonda! What a great opportunity you have with this young girl, may God bless you both!
This woman is so blessed to have you and your husband in her life – you are like stand in parents and grandparents to her daughter! I pray the Lord continues to strengthen her as she leans on Him!
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—whom should I dread?…Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart be courageous. Wait for the Lord.”
May I always remember this Lord!
Yes! I love that at some point they were just words to us on a paper, distant. Then, in our deepest need they became true and impactful!! (side note-I just don’t know how “impactful” always underlines red as I use it OFTEN…it is a WORD in my book!!)
Amen
Ps 23:1b
GNT I have everything I need.
For me, this phrasing emphasizes focusing on what I have rather than what I don’t. It’s plenty and then some.
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Our daily strengthening:
Ps 27:13-14
13
I would have lost heart, unless I had believed
That I would see the goodness of the Lord
In the land of the living.
14
Wait on the Lord;
Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart;
Wait, I say, on the Lord!
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Psalm 29:9 … And in His temple everyone says, “Glory!”
Can you hear it? Deafening, I’m sure!
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WENDY B – amen, Psalm 118:24
CEE GEE ❤️ you almost stumped me! Beautiful song by John Finch
I was reading the scriptures out loud today and when I came to Psalm 29:9 I shouted (sort of..HaHa) glory – but I am quite sure it sounded nothing like David was describing!
I also chose to read aloud today. Hoping it will help with comprehension and recall. ??
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The weather out there sounds terrible. Hope you are safe and were somehow able to attend the conference.
From Enduring Word on Psalm 23:1
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I shall not want: For David, the fact of God’s shepherd-like care was the end of dissatisfied need. He said, “I shall not want” both as a declaration and as a decision.
i. “I shall not want” means, “All my needs are supplied by the LORD, my shepherd.”
ii. “I shall not want” means, “I decide to not desire more than what the LORD, my shepherd gives.”
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I had never thought of it meaning “I decide to not desire more than what the LORD, my shepherd gives.” That was eye opening for me today.
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Amen
My heart rejoiced when the writer said her mom finally accepted Jesus. ❤️❤️❤️
Same!
Amen & Amen!
*The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?
The Lotd is my light and my salvation! Whom shall I fear?
Amen❤️
My prayer today
Psalm 25:4-5:
“Make your ways known to me, Lord;
teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
I wait for you all day long.”
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Have a hope-filled Monday, Shes.
Yes!
Yes I join you, my prayer psalm today also❤️
Yes, a good prayer for every day!
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Oh what a rich morning in the Psalms this Monday, Ladies! Very hard to rush though these getting ready for work. Lots of the verses are special and ones we go to often in times of joy and grief. Today verse 4 from Psalm 27 made me think of our study in Revelation – when we get to Glory, the Lord God will be our light and Jesus Christ our temple so we won’t need to “seek” them in the temple. Can we just imagine having ‘touchable’ access to our Father and Savior daily as we dwell in His house forever!!
That should get our engine running on an early Monday morning!
A lot of Psalms to read, ponder and pray this morning!
My summary:
Lent is not merely about giving something up.
These psalms show it is about:
Being shepherded.
Being cleansed.
Being taught.
Being examined.
Being strengthened.
Being heard.
Being awed.
Being examined
Wow, truly
And prayerfully being changed
Thank you, Kimberly.
Amen. ❤️
Amen
Thank you, dear sisters, for all your sweet comments yesterday and all your prayers this week!I know that many of you have carried me during the entire journey of Jack’s illness, the hard task of caregiving, and his passing last year. I have felt all your prayers and encouragement. Love and hugs to each of you! ❤️
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It’s a hard road of being a caretaker. But also a time to share how much we love someone. Continued prayers Lynne.
Continued prayers for you, my dear sister Lynne. ❤️
Continued prayers Lynne! ❤️
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When my younger son was five, maybe six, we had an elderly friend who was slowly leaving this world through dementia.. We visited her and stayed a week. That week was very special, as although, she remembered us-ish, she remembered Psalm 23 more.
Vin, loved the Lord, and so as we sat by her bed we would read to her, the discovery was that if we read Psalm 23 she recited along with us.. So that over the week when she was tired or was having a bad moment, my young son or I would read Psalm 23 to her, this often gave her the inner peace she needed..
She had forgotten most thigs, but Psalm 23 was embedded deep within her!
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Quite amazing!
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I have love Psalm 23 from my childhood, it is a constant go to, and for sure, it is etched on my heart, but I think, as I have gotten older, and the ‘little grey cell’s are teaching me the importance of life now, not as I used to live it, Psalm 27, begins also to hold a special place in my heart!
The whole of this Psalm reads as I see my life now!
The LORD is my light and my salvation..
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He protects me from all danger.
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I still have fear, but NOT as I used to.
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When I am attacked, I am safe in His presence.
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EVEN IF, I am surrounded by negativity, I trust GOD.
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As I have got older, one thing I have asked the LORD for, one thing only, do I seriously want is to live in His house, for always, and to marvel there at His Goodness and Mercy and Grace..
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I feel His presence when trouble comes, I am safe.
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I WILL forever sing praise to the LORD.
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My parents have long gone, but you, LORD, have always been close.
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May I always know your ways and feel your leading as I go.
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I absolutely know, without a doubt, that I will see your goodness daily.
I trust in you, Lord God,
I trust in you.
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BUT GOD.
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AMEN.
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Happy Monday, sweet sisters.. Blessings abundant being prayed for you. Hugs always..❤❤❤
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Me too, Tina!!
Amen
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My mom, as I was growing up, said “three ladies follow you all if you of your life “Shirley,” “Goodness,” and “Mercy.”” (Psalm 23:6)
Thought you may get a laugh from that.
:)❤
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Hope all is well with you, A. Walton!❤❤
Thanks!
Love it
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Let Jesus light shine through all il do today, lets me be a light for you!
Amen