March 23, 2021 – Click here to listen
Well today is moving day. Three moving trucks should arrive from Jupiter between 8-9 and then the hard work of unloading, unpacking, organizing, and putting things where they belong will begin in earnest. It will likely take at least a couple of weeks to accomplish.
Someone told me the other day that moving is one of the five most stressful things to do in life. I’m not stressed by it in the least and instead, focus on and look forward to, the end result such as sleeping in my own bed with all my stuff in one location. That said it will require some hard work and endurance and I’ll be happy when it is finished.
I have far too many friends who are stressed out almost constantly. I’ve found that looking ahead to the wonderful things we have in store for us is the way to avoid being stressed. I was doing my Bible study this morning and we reviewed Psalm 23. It is one of my favorites. It’s very comforting and anyone who has attended a funeral has probably heard this one. Those facing death, (all of us,) should also find it comforting whenever we stop long enough to think about the end of this life and the new beginning of the next.
We are portrayed as sheep in this chapter and they are really dumb animals and must be led by a caring shepherd. They will not even drink from a river where the water is moving rapidly because they are terrified to do so. Jesus metaphorically is referred to as a good Shepherd leading His sheep to green pastures and “still” waters instead of merely pointing the way.
I always liked the part about walking through the valley of the shadow of death. Referring to death as a shadow indicates to me that it is harmless, because shadows are . . . well harmless, and flee from light like a scared little rabbit. Also, conditions have to be devoid of light for shadows to exist. God is light and death and the influence of Satan cannot exist when exposed to it. Thus the best advice is to keep our eyes on Jesus and we will not even see shadows.
This verse not only applies to our ultimate departure from this world to heaven, but also to all of life. I hope you enjoy reading it again today as did I. God is with us! No need for stress God has this today and every day.
Psalm 23:3
He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name. 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 . . .