Psalm 23.........

Over the last couple of days I have struggled. Tonight I have once again come to the conclusion that it is fine to struggle, every Christian struggles and what I need to do now is cling onto God's promises and faithfulness.

When in hospital this week a wonderful friend gave me some different copies of Psalm 23. This Psalm has meant so much to me for as long as I can remember, dating back to even before I was a Christian. The song makes me cry every time; and the scripture stirs so much within me every time I read it.

Then when reading a book today entitled 'Pieces of Glass' by Sarah Kay it mentioned some things on this scripture. It says how God has never promised that we will not face evil or death, God never said we would have an easy ride, actually this psalm verifies the inevitability of the trouble we will indeed face. Nevertheless the verses on death and suffering are not the final chapter of verse of this psalm nor our experiences.

"See death is tucked between two great promises. The Psalm begins with God's gentleness to nurture and discipline, promised in the first few verses. That's followed by testament to His unwavering presence and guiding strength in times of great pain. But the final words remind us that in the end, our cup will again overflow with goodness".

This is what I firmly cling hold of tight; tonight and always.

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.

He guides me in paths of righteousness

for his name's sake.
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.
You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me

all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord

forever.

Psalm 23