Streams of Serenity

by Heather Berndt

Psalm 23

The Lord is MY shepherd;
*What an honor!*

I shall not want.
*He takes care of all my wants and needs.*

He makes me lie down in green pastures.
*I will only grow healthy with green grass.*

He leads me beside still waters.
*Still waters because sheep are afraid of water with any movement.*

He restores my soul.
*He gives me the grace I need for each thing I face in my life.*

He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
*He knows my future.*

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for You are with me.
*My Father promised to always protect me.*

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
*The rod was designed to destroy any threat to the sheep.
The staff had a hook that could carefully lift the sheep out of danger.*

You've prepared a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
*You are always watching to make sure I can safely eat.*

You anoint my head with oil,
*Oil was once used for wounds to help them heal.*

My cup runs over.
*I cannot help but be overjoyed with Who is Sovereign!*

Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life,
*He will continue to bless me in the good times and bad.*

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
*The job He asked me to do is complete, and I am heaven bound.*