Notes on Hope Devotional

Rest and Refresh

Psalm 23:2 (NIV)
     He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters...

Psalm 23 is the most familiar psalm in the Bible. Recited at weddings and funerals, the poetic words form an indelible picture of God as our Shepherd.

Since it is so familiar, we can often miss the depth and meaning of each verse. Like a poem, there is a different structure, using fewer words that create imagery and emotion.

The second verse in Psalm 23 follows on the heels of the Lord being our Shepherd. The words “He makes me lie down in green pastures,” evoke a sense of tender protection. Other versions of the verse say, “He lets me lie down.”

My response is a sense of gentle guidance, offering me a place of secure rest. Because sheep follow the familiar, the voice of the Shepherd is calming and trustworthy. Like sheep, we are safe when resting and cared for by the Shepherd.

The second stanza, “he leads me beside quiet waters,” creates a sense of serenity. The location of being led beside quiet waters invites us to refresh our souls in the presence of water. Being near water, or “blue spaces,” is shown to reduce stress, deepen our sense of awe, and help us relax.

I’ve been reciting this verse lately to get my mind to slow down and meditate on being in green pastures and beside quiet waters. Both my brain and body need it. Slowly saying this verse aloud to myself is helping me see the provision and protection of One who is my Shepherd.  True rest awaits us as we are led by still waters and green pastures.

Dear Lord,
Thank You for being our Shepherd, who loves, leads, provides, and protects us. Help us let You lead us and guide us so we can experience the rest and peace You give.
In Jesus Name, Amen.