I love my sleep. I love an impromptu afternoon nap and I enjoy resting. But as a wife and mom, working woman, leader and friend I am often pulled in many directions and have a non stop call of demands on me. I am also a planner and like things to be ordered, organized and in control. The first part of this verse reads “He makes me lie down”. Firstly He doesn’t force me, but the term “makes me” seems a bit more encouraging than “would you like to?” It’s a bit more intentional. “Lie down” speaks to me of 2 things: REST and SURRENDER. I think in the midst of all we are facing, this reminder is liberating. As much as we want to be in control and as much as all the global events and circumstances are frustrating and as much as we want things to go our way, Jesus gently nudges us towards rest and surrender. He is almighty. He is sovereign. He is King. He is also merciful and kind and can be trusted. So let’s lean into Him. Let’s rest in Him. Let’s surrender to His ways and to His plans. Let’s let go. Let’s look to Him.
God also knows that our human bodies require physical rest. Let’s honour our temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16) and let’s eat well, exercise well and sleep well.
The second half of this verse: “in green pastures” is just beautiful! How amazing that God leads us to rest in healthy abundant green pastures. Green speaks to me of growth, of life and of fruitfulness and God leads us to rest in this kind of a space. A space of peace, of new life and of growth.
hope of heart 