The Shepherd and His Sheep - Part 18

The Lord is my Shepherd. I have everything I need. He makes me lie down. There are times when my work and other commitments cause me to go and go.

Worry or the chatter going on inside my brain as it goes over the list of things that must be done rob me of sleep. The more I need to lie down, the less I am able to make myself lie down.

I need the Presence of the Shepherd to calm me so I can lie down. When sheep do not feel relaxed in the trusted presence of their shepherd or in safe pasture, they are not able to rest. When sheep do not rest they become ill or injured. I am like that. I need my rest. Sometimes the Shepherd gives me strength to keep on going and sometimes the Shepherd gives me the “gift” of making me lay down through sickness. When my body says stop, I have to stop. The Shepherd, my Creator, made me that way.

The Lord commands and prescribes a day of rest and recreation. He makes us lie down in green meadows. He leads by still waters. He restores our souls. Un-hassled, deep sleep is my best physical rest. I need quiet days to read and relax. The Lord is my Shepherd He makes me lay down my burdens and He makes me lie down to rest. Cast your burden on the Lord for He cares for you. Lay down those burdens and rest in the Presence of the Lord.

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

“Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Psalm 55:22 (NLT)

By Commissioner Debi Bell