Psalms Devo...

Been working on a Psalms devotional guide/book. In December, God seemed to be prompting me to rework it and look at some publishing possibilities. I have always loved writing and dreamed of writing books one day. Feel like that may happen at some point...who knows. Chris Roe (our partner in ministry) and I have talked about putting resources in people's hands...like podcasts and written materials. We feel called to fuel this movement called Encounter. It is not based on a personality or organization. It is fluid and much more driven by dependency on the Spirit. As this movement spreads, we want to resource people and empower them to multiply the efforts.

So, here is a sample of the Psalm stuff. it is basically a way to look at the psalms in a personal, devotional way. Gives a few "nuggets" to take through your day...

Psalm 23

1The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters,
3He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness For his name's sake.
4Even 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.
5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6Surely goodness and love will follow me All the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
(NIV)

Valley Moments
“Even though I walk through the valley…”

They come at the oddest times of the day. What seems to be an ordinary moment at work or at home can be quickly transformed into a valley moment. It creeps up on you like a snake in the grass. The hum-drum of a day gets turned upside down. Maybe it is a phone call or a letter. It could show up in a personality or human quirk. Maybe the boss or a co-worker. An ordinary word or a normal look takes on the flesh of a valley moment. Valley moments will not be found on your day-timer or to-do list for the day. They arrive without permission. They typically use the back door instead of the front. They are not announced guests but forced visitors. They are valley moments.

Basically, these valley moments bombard us with feelings of loneliness, isolation, hurt, and guilt. They force our paths into the valley where we taste of death and evil. Take courage, though, because there is a Great Shepherd present in these valley moments. Walk close to Him and He will lead you to pastures of protection. He will guide you to refreshing waters of grace. He restores bones that have been broken from smashing words and cutting personalities. He clears the path of righteousness and makes a way for you to walk with integrity. He is the Good Shepherd.

Today, though they come unexpectantly, embrace the valley moments. More importantly, embrace the Good Shepherd.