The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalms 23:1-6 (NIV)
It is our faults when we do not set our hearts to enjoy the abundant riches of our God. Jesus is such a Friend that sticks closer than a brother and He invites us to come to Him daily. He alone refreshes our weary souls, filling us with His treasures. We are never wanting when we have God to go to and the indwelling Holy Spirit to strengthen and prepare us for all of life’s events. The Spirit comforts, strengthens and satisfies the needy human soul – and we are all needy. These fruits are only found in the heart of the believer in sweet Jesus. If all earthly things were taken away, He could still bring forth His effectual comforts to the soul of His heirs of mercy. Elisabeth Elliot states: “God never withholds from His child that which His love and wisdom call good. God’s refusals are always merciful – ‘severe mercies’ at times but mercies all the same. God never denies us our hearts desire except to give us something better.” The world is unable to give you peace and joy without removing the cross of affliction but Christ gives both peace, comfort and joy unspeakable even in the midst of it. It is a peace that is other-worldly in its nature and Satan cannot take it away.
How seldom do we cast our troubles upon Him so that He will sustain us! He will never let the righteous fall – He strengthens us with all power according to His glorious might. It is perplexing that we so rarely make use of all the provisions coming forth from His loving Hand. As we call on Him He will answer us and tell us great and unsearchable things we do not know. Never does anyone lose who seeks God with all their hearts and desires to honor Him. We can trust Him with our lives and the lives of all we hold dear. When we make the glory of God our primary goal, He will lift us up in due time. Our desire is to hear a well done good and faithful servant.
I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me. With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver. Proverbs 8:17-19 (NIV)