Morning Devotional 091625 Blessed and Saved

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

September 15, 2025

Psalm 23:1-6

1 The LORD is my shepherd. I lack nothing. 2 He lets me rest in grassy meadows; he leads me to restful waters; 3 he keeps me alive. He guides me in proper paths for the sake of his good name. 4 Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger because you are with me. Your rod and your staff they protect me. 5 You set a table for me right in front of my enemies. You bathe my head in oil; my cup is so full it spills over! 6 Yes, goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the LORD’s house as long as I live.

Good Morning! The Lord is our shepherd!

The 23rd Psalm is one of those that many people can recite from memory. It is often read at funerals because it is a favorite passage of the deceased or read to comfort the family. Sometimes, because of this use, people consider it a “sad” verse. 

These words are affirming words that remind us of all that God provides for us. God is with us from our beginning and stays with us until we join together with God in heaven. During good times and bad times, these are good words to read or recite. 

The image of a shepherd illuminates God’s role in our lives. Shepherds watch over their flocks. When all is well, the shepherd simply stands watch. When troubles come, the shepherd intercedes on behalf of the sheep. When we get lost, the shepherd seeks us. 

When God sent Jesus to walk among us, Jesus became the Good Shepherd. To save us from sin and evil, Jesus gave his life to save us, his sheep.

Take time to say these words like a breath prayer. Recite a phrase and then insert the words thank you, God between each phrase. Be blessed!

Loving Lord, you bless us abundantly! We love you, Lord. There aren’t enough words to thank you for all you do. Thank you. We love you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen

Thought for the day: God will never abandon us. 

Bless the Lord, O My Soul! Pastor Liz