Beside Quiet Waters

 Psalm 23:1-3

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

     He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

     he refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths

    for his name’s sake.

The sound of water calms my soul.

On a path Tim and I walk with Rosie at our local park, there’s one spot where we stop and listen. The river ripples over rocks and through the water-star grass. I close my eyes and hear the most soothing sound. I respond to the slow rhythm of the push and pull of the water with a prayer of thanksgiving or sometimes a cry for help, depending on the day. The cry for help often comes from reading or knowing the needs of friends and family, or our own. Thanksgiving in a natural setting comes easily. I love the woods, the water, the creation of our glorious God.

Even though I’m not a skilled swimmer, I love water. Standing in the pool renews my body’s strength. Sitting beside the water overwhelms me with peace. Yes, I know water can be dangerous and powerful, but I’m talking about how I respond to the water God provides to comfort my soul.

God ripples his peace and hope over me. He sends waves of quiet water that refreshes my soul.

Like David, He leads me beside the river where I can take in the peaceful sounds, or the lake where I listen to the water churn. When I need comfort, God provides. He offers peace and hope, even joy.

I’m thankful for the peace I find in God’s presence and the hope I have in Jesus.

Find a place to be still and know God.