LIFE ENRICHMENT MINISTRIES, INC. (501c3)
Saturday I will be teaching a seminar to a church through Skype in Canada on how to deal with stress. The Lord brought this psalm to my heart – I will make a few comments below.
Psalm 23 Amplified Bible (AMP)
1 The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, guide, and shield me], I shall not lack.
2 He makes me lie down in [fresh, tender] green pastures; He leads me beside the still and restful waters.
3 He refreshes and restores my life (my self); He leads me in the paths of righteousness [uprightness and right standing with Him—not for my earning it, but] for His name’s sake.
4 Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with [a]oil; my [brimming] cup runs over.
6 Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place.
Footnotes:
Psalm 23:5 It is difficult for those living in a temperate climate to appreciate, but it was customary in hot climates to anoint the body with oil to protect it from excessive perspiration. When mixed with perfume, the oil imparted a delightfully refreshing and invigorating sensation. Athletes anointed their bodies as a matter of course before running a race. As the body, therefore, anointed with oil was refreshed, invigorated, and better fitted for action, so the Lord would anoint His “sheep” with the Holy Spirit, Whom oil symbolizes, to fit them to engage more freely in His service and run in the way He directs—in heavenly fellowship with Him.
My note: The Lord understands the need for rest and restoration in times of stress. He makes me lie down for rest. He restores my soul. He protects, guides and comforts. He provides for me as my enemies watch. He anoints me with His Spirit and gives me strength. When I stay close to him, he will bless me with goodness, mercy and His love. In Him I will live and move and have my being!!!
(c) Carol Clemans – June 2015
www.carolclemans.org – I love teaching God’s anointed Word for spiritual, emotional and relational growth for churches & conferences. I provide nationwide counseling by phone/Skype (636) 448-0121 for pastors and lay people. Check website for bio, 170+ articles, teaching CD’s, DVD’s, book: GOD’S DESIGN FOR MARRIAGE.