How we probably live Psalm 23

Nov 10, 2023 by Leoma G Gilley, in INSIDE: Reflections

What we say and what we do often are not the same. The words of Psalm 23 bless many: The LORD is my shepherd. I have everything that I need. But as I've looked at my life and the lives of those around me, it looks very different. In reality, it probably goes more like this: The LORD is my backup plan in case I have an emergency. What are we cheating ourselves out of? God wants to be our Shepherd, our Coach! But we leave him on the sidelines until we've messed up so badly, we have to call God to help us out.
 

Psalm 23
The Real one (NLT) How we live (my version)
The LORD is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.

The LORD is my backup plan

For when I have an emergency.

In the meantime, I race through life

At breakneck speed

Trying not to miss anything.

I get tired and depressed,

But I keep going on my chosen way

In hopes of bringing honor to my name.

When I walk through dark valleys I ask,

“Why me? I don’t deserve this!”

When I’m afraid, I ask,

“Why did you let me get to this point?

Why don’t you protect and comfort me?”

I feel fearful and helpless in the presence of my enemies.

Why don’t they recognize my value and worth?

Why don’t my successes satisfy?

 
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.

Surely goodness and reward will come to me If I keep working hard enough,

And then I can rest on my accomplishments

For the rest of my days.

 

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