One of the telling things about the hustle and bustle of life is that over time it usually takes its toll on us. The stress of everyday living, being pulled in different directions by what seems like endless demands on us and our time, and dealing with various life challenges often leave us feeling depleted mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Charles Allen says it well - "Like a watch, the human spirit can run down. We lose our drive and push. We become less willing to attempt the difficult. We are crusaders no longer. . . . Like squeezing the juice from an orange and leaving just the pulp, life has a way of squeezing the spirit out of a person. A person can become 'only a shell.' We feel the thrill of no new enthusiasm, the dawn of a new day leaves us cold and hopeless." For those of us who are able to, we take off for a few days of retreat or an extended vacation so we can rest and replenish ourselves. Deep within, our souls need to be restored.
The sheep in the shepherd's care experiences its own depletion. Allen writes, "As the sheep start out in the morning to graze, each takes a definite place in line and holds that same position all during the day. However, some time during the day each sheep leaves its place in line and trots over to the shepherd. The shepherd gently rubs the nose and ears, lightly scratches the ears, and whispers in an ear of the sheep. Reassured and encouraged, the sheep takes its place in line again." There are days I feel like that sheep, needing a loving and caring touch along with whispered words of encouragement to strengthen a depleted spirit. However, it is often during those times I am reminded that as a sheep in the Good Shepherd’s care, He not only leads me beside the still waters but He also restores [revitalizes, renews, revives] my soul.
It is reassuring to know that when our hearts are overwhelmed we find a Shepherd who stands ready to provide us with a safe, restful place and lots of tender loving care. When we feel we cannot make it through one more day, He knows exactly how to minister to the deep places of our beings that need to be restored. A whisper from His Word, a caress from a song that reminds us of His faithfulness, the warmth of a hug as the Holy Spirit embraces us with and in a love that only He can give. In the times we need it the most, we experience the joy of His care that serves as the platform for our joy.
No child of God has to resort to drugs, alcohol, or illicit behaviors to find that renewal. The LORD is our shepherd and it is He alone that can fully restore our souls (Psalm 23:3a). What has been your experience?
No comments:
Post a Comment