It’s good to put Psalm 23 in your Soul Kit. . . . For decades we’ve used it in our teaching and small groups as a resource for God’s peace and guidance.”- Kristi Gaultiere
In the “Soul Care Practice” that follows Chapter 1 of Journey of the Soul, Kristi Gaultiere takes time to saturate our souls in Psalm 23. Hence, Kristi prays her thoughts on each verse. Four verse comments specifically resonated with me.
Verse 2 – He leads me beside still waters. Why still waters? Kristi asks. Because sheep fear rushing waters. As a result, sheep can’t get a drink. As Jesus says in John 7:27-28, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
Verse 3 – He leads me down the path of righteousness for his name’s sake. Sheep typically wander and get lost. In addition, they follow other sheep and may get stuck in pricker bushes. However, Jesus knows the best way. He leads us.
Verse 4 – Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. When we find ourselves in a dark valley for a season, our Good Shepherd leads us past the snakes and cougars. Certainly, we’re reluctant to go this way. But Jesus takes us on a route to the high country, with cool temperatures and green grass.
Verse 5 – You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows. Shepherd Jesus uses a special oil to heal our wounds. With this oil, He anoints us as wounded healers. As wounded healers, we posses compassion and understanding for others who are hurting or struggling.
God’s unconditional love spills out and splashes onto us. We pray that it overflows from us to others.
Today’s question: What Scriptures beside Psalm 23 do you include in your Soul Kit? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Cycle of Pseudograce – increasingly common”
