“He restores my soul.”
Psalm 23:3 NASB
As I look through my dining room window, I catch a glimpse of the old church pew sitting on the front porch. A gift from my son and daughter-in-law several years ago, it remains unfinished. I really should do something with it. It’s an eyesore; a weathered and worn out piece of furniture. Rather ugly and useless since it is not a very inviting place to sit. What a great project it would be for one of those TV shows that can turn junk into treasure!
Thinking about it, there have been times when I deemed myself to be much like the description of that pew. Maybe you have, too. I felt tired and worn out; worthless and of no use to anyone; unattractive, both inside and out.
During those times, we can rest assured knowing that we have a fixer upper that trumps all the experts on every TV show combined. He’s our Shepherd – the guard, caregiver, and ruler of the flock. He watches over us, tends to our needs, feeds us, and delights in our presence.
He restores my soul. He renews my strength. He refreshes my soul. He renews my life. [Ps. 23:3 NASB; NLT; NIV; HCSB]
As the great Shepherd, God watches over us and knows our every want and desire. He sees when we’re weary and inadequate. Gathering us in His arms, He carries us to a safe place and renews, repairs, and renovates our tired soul, bringing much-needed healing. And then, He tenderly guides our steps in the right direction because He has a purpose and plan for our lives…for YOUR life! (read the rest of Ps. 23:3).
[Digging deeper – Psalm 19:7; Psalm 51:12; Isaiah 40:29-31]
Being restored,
Beverly <><
It’s rare to go anywhere these days and not see folks with a phone in hand, talking, texting, or scrolling up and down. They’re on the phone while driving, walking on the sidewalk, or dining at a restaurant. Kids riding on the school bus, passengers at the airport, families sitting at home – all busy on their phones. Standing in line or in a waiting room, it’s not uncommon to see people playing a game or typing on the keypad. Bluetooth or ear buds make it convenient to talk hands free while shopping or working at home. 
In Arizona, under a three acre glass dome, scientists tried to re-construct Earth’s ecosystem. Windless, scientists were quite surprised when trees suddenly started falling over, collapsing under their own weight. These scientists discovered wind actually plays a vital role in a plant’s life. The stress of the wind causes trees to grow what is known as “stress wood,” which helps the tree to complete maturity to live a long, healthy life. (