- “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” This is the other side as you navigate through the dark valleys. What does this picture say to you?
Victory. Dark valleys are trials so I can overcome the demons in my soul—the habits I need to break, the ugly aspects of my personality and values and culture, the tests to strengthen my faith, the fears that I need to overcome with faith and hope—that he occasionally allows free rein so I can defeat them.
- “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” In real terms, how would you interpret this statement for yourself? What is the basis for such confidence?
As I go through life with my Shepherd, because I follow his lead, even through dark valleys, I know that good and love will surround me all my life, and ultimately I will be with him in his home. My Shepherd sacrificed himself to find me; he will surely take care of me and lead me home.
- For the Lord to be your Shepherd, you will have to be his sheep. What are the implications to you to uphold your end of the relationship?
I listen, I pay attention, I study his Word, I obey and I learn from my mistakes so as to obey better.
Thanks, Pei Lan. It greatly encourages me and gives me joy to know that you have been blessed by my efforts. 🙂
Thank you for penning these devotion guides and your reflections. Over the years I’ve found your thought provoking questions very apt for my personal meditation on God’s Word. I had this in mind when I once told a church member that more questions than (spoon fed) answers helps us as we think over matters. THANK YOU once again. May God continue to guide and enrich your ministry