Tuesday, April 29, 2025
New Testament Reading Plan: Acts 7
My favorite scripture in the Bible is the 23rd Psalm. I’m sure many, if not most, of you are familiar with it or even know it by heart. It has been my favorite ever since I accepted Christ into my heart at age ten. Did I completely understand it back then? No, but I always found the verses comforting.
Psalm 23:1-2 NKJV
1 The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
As an older adult, I have a far better understanding of this scripture, because I’ve experienced their promise throughout my life.
Jesus loves me and you and every member of his flock. He will do everything he can to protect and provide for us. He wants the very best for us - the greenest pastures, the richest life. And he wants us to find peace and calm in his presence.
Psalm 23:3-4 NKJV
3 He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
4 Yea, 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.
When we accept Christ into our heart, our life is changed forever. From that point on, we are blessed with the Holy Spirit to guide us in our journey, helping us choose the right way, not for ourselves but for him. As we encounter the many troubles of this world, we have no reason to fear, for Christ, the Good Shepherd, is right there with us. When we wander - as sheep do - he provides a gentle nudge and welcomes us back into his fold.
Psalm 23:5-6 NKJV
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.
Even as we face the evils of this world, Jesus provides all we need to defeat them. Until the time comes to join him in heaven, Jesus promises to walk alongside us, pouring out his goodness and mercy in ways far beyond what we deserve.
Questions:
Are you allowing Christ to be your Good Shepherd?
Do you sometimes feel lost or confused in your journey?
Next Steps:
Intentionally connect with God this week. Read your Bible, journal, pray on your drive to work, join a Group, or step into serving on the Dream Team to watch him fill your life with his goodness and mercy.
Prayer:
Father, you are the Good Shepherd. I know you want to provide for me and protect me. Help me to be a good sheep. Give me the wisdom to follow your lead in all aspects of my life and the courage to face adversity without fear. Help me to trust that you are always beside me, guiding my steps. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
John 8:31-32
Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
This post was written by Ned Miller, a Findlay attendee and regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.