Devotions

Fjeldberg – Devotion for July 22nd, 2025

READ (Psalm 23)
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me like down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and staff - they comfort me. You prepared a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord my whole life long.

REFLECT
After the unexpected death of my brother-in-law due to heart attack almost ten years ago, his celebration of life service was held in a green pasture with the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop. A member of our family recited Psalm 23 by memory as part of the service. It spoke to me as I was grieving that day in a powerful way.

To follow the shepherd through green pastures and dark valleys alike is to confess that we depend on someone else to guide us. Psalm 23 does not promise an easy road. We are not left of fend for ourselves. We are not abandoned even in the darkest valley, Jesus the Good Shepherd leads us, and his grace will not let us go.

PRAY
Jesus the Good Shepherd, when the path is uncertain and the shadows deepen, remind us that you walk beside us, leading us with love. Amen.

Devotions by Marita R