Beside the Still Waters

The 23rd Psalm. I memorized it at a young age. For most Christians, it’s as familiar as the back of our hands. Even non-believers can recite much of the passage without batting an eye. Depending which version of the Bible we read, the words are pretty easy, too.

I like to study God’s word early in the morning. My mind is sharper; my focus clearer.

I often study passages of scripture, rather than just a particular verse. I believe it helps me better understand the meat of God’s word to do it that way, but that’s just me. Your study method may be different. Sometimes, I think God imparts His message to us in various ways without having His word right at hand. We’re able to draw from what we’ve already learned, studied, and imbedded within our own hearts. And then I believe there are times where He reveals His word (and will) to us in ways that are nothing short of divine and miraculous.

As I was studying the 23rd Psalm this morning, I didn’t really have to open my Bible because I knew the words by heart, but I did anyway. I thought about each and every word as I read it. I didn’t want the words to feel too comfortable. (We should take comfort in without complacency toward God’s word.)

Here are the words that came to mind as I read the 23rd Psalm: peace, strength, courage, protection, provision, and mercy. It made me think of the many ways our Heavenly Father takes care of us on a daily, minute-by-minute basis, in good times and in bad, as any loving parent would when caring for a child.

As I write, there are some things I strive for:

• a Christ-like love
• a giving heart
• a willing spirit
• transparency
• balance

I’m sure there are days when I fall short or miss the mark, but I try to implement these things in my work-in-progress or even in a simple post.  I try to be as “real” here as I would if you were to talk to me in person.

I study scriptures like those in the 23rd Psalm to help keep me grounded and to remind me that there is indeed One who is guiding my ship’s course.

Often, I like to lie down in the green pastures and be calmed by the still waters. When life seems to dole out a hard knock or two and everything seems to go out of sync at once, it’s important we focus on the peace that comes from such a place.

Writing is a solitary world. It’s easy to get drug down by the muck and mire of discouragement, perceived abandonment, comparisons, and self-doubt. But can I tell you something? Every writer/author has felt this way at one time or another. Wallow in it for a while if you must, but remember, those are stumbling blocks created by one who doesn’t have your best interest at heart.

Shake off illusions of failure. Refocus, refuel, and dust off defeat. See your vision. Act out your ministry. Get ready for success!

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Do you have a favorite passage of scripture that keeps you grounded? How are you preparing for success?