”Peace & Blessing” Advent Devotion for December 10, 2021

Peace & Blessing

Written by Lucie Yaba, Seminary Intern

Read by Denise Utter

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

–Psalm 23:1-6

This well-known Psalm is so rich with peace and blessing for all our days. Yet often we can become so “familiar” with popular verses and chapters of God’s word, that they can almost lose the important message that God is wanting to instill within our hearts.

Praying God’s words back to Him, and meditating on them verse by verse, can help us to remember his goodness and his love, and be strengthened by his truths.

"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not be in want."  He leads us, He guides us, He's always with us, and we can be assured and feel safe under His protective care.

"He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul..."  He knows where true rest and blessing are found, and leads us there, He restores, He refreshes, He brings peace and goodness. 

"He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake."  He leads us to walk in His ways, He draws us to stay close to Him and follow Him.

"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff they comfort me."  Though life is uncertain, and we may suffer with illness, loss, or pain, our God of comfort, our Lord who holds all power over death and disease walks with us. Always. He is the only One who can take us by the hand through life's darkest moments of suffering, bringing freedom and healing from the pain of this life, straight into glory and the hope of heaven that God has reserved for us. We never have to fear, in life or in death, for God is with us, our constant strength and Shepherd who will never fail us.

Thank you that you are our good Shepherd, and we can trust you with our lives. Thank you for your guidance and care in all our days. Thank you that you restore our souls, give us peace, and bring us hope in all our tomorrows. Thank you for your protection and strength that surrounds us like a shield. Thank you for your goodness and love that follows us, chases us, even when we’re unaware. We praise you for the assurance that we will dwell with you forever. In our Lord Jesus' Name, Amen