Daily Devotion | Day 249
“He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3, ESV).
Growing up, Psalm 23 was one of a few Bible passages we were supposed to memorize. Although we didn’t understand what we were reciting, there was something refreshing about it. Today, the psalm makes more sense, thanks to the Holy Spirit’s help. Let’s focus today on two things that jump out of Psalm 23:3. Remember, this is a psalm about the Good Shepherd.
“He restores my soul.” – David describes his confidence in the protection and providence of the Lord. His confidence is based on what he knows about the Lord. He declares that the Lord restores his soul. How did he know that? He knew because he walked with God. This tells us something important about the character of God, and that is, He restores the souls of his saints.
When you go through diverse trials, your soul can be burdened. Everyone who walks with God knows this can happen. But the good news is, God can refresh and restore your soul. In 1 Peter 5:7, the Bible urges us to cast our burden unto God for He cares for us. Whatever you’re dealing with that burdens your soul, go to the Lord in prayer and let Him restore your soul. He will renew your strength and revitalize you.
“He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” – when you come into covenant with God, He puts His name on you. You become a bearer of His name. This means whatever happens to you can affect God’s name. David says that, in His providence, God leads us in paths of righteousness. There are people who wish that you fall away from the right path. Certainly satan wishes that. When a child of God deviates from the right path, God’s name is implicated.
But God is faithful. If you remain obedient to Him, He will preserve you. For His name’s sake, He will make you walk in paths of righteousness and integrity. As you walk in obedience to God, He will cause His name to be glorified in your life. He loves you, and He will jealously preserve His name. Listen to what Jesus said and the Father’s reply, ‘“Father, glorify your name.’ Then a voice came from heaven: ‘I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again’” (John 12:28). The Father heard Jesus’ prayer. He will hear yours, too.
If you ever come to a point where you need the Father to glorify His name, just ask. He is more than happy to do that.
Blessing: May the Lord cause His name to be glorified in your life. Amen.
For further study: Isaiah 40:25-31
Higher-Self Realities 