As I sit here looking back on the past 23 days, I realize that I gained a lot of insight into not only the 23rd Psalm, but into myself as well. I don’t remember a time where I was able to be disciplined enough to read the bible 23 days straight. I’ve read through the bible several times but I would have to do catch up to stay on schedule.
When I started this study, verse 4, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil” really gave me chills just thinking about it. Steph had just been in Israel last year and actually went to this valley but until I saw the images of the hundreds of graves located in the cemeteries in this valley, you just can’t grasp the reality of what this place represents…death.
Little did I know that during this study, 3 very close friends would say goodbye to one of their parents as God called their parent home.
I also did not know the power of the end of that same verse. “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” The staff was used to reach down and pull the lamb out of a pit but the rod stood out to me more. It was a bar that all of the sheep would go under to be counted so that no one was left behind. The sheep mattered to the shepherd. We matter to God. He doesn’t want anyone left behind when He steps out to call us home.
I also debated about putting the sinner’s prayer in on the last day, Forever. The more I thought about it, the more it needed to be there. How can I do a study on God’s Word and not tell someone how to be saved? I have no idea who may ever read this but if it reaches just one person, then what God gave me to put down will be worth it.
To say this study affected me would be an understatement. During these past 23 days, I have been able to discern the voice of God more clearly. He has put me in opportunities to share what He is doing in my life. He has given me the chance to be His hands and His feet helping others.
Now I just need to take what I’ve gained and move on to the next chapter.
Keith
KWHITE75 