Still Waters

The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved of all Psalms, written by Kind David, who definitely knew the Lord as His Shepherd. My own 'shepherding' by the Lord, H3068, יהוה, YHVH in the English letters was truly life changing. The YHVH Name is used in this first verse, that also describes Him as Shepherd,H7462, Ra'ah, רעה. It is from a primitive root meaning to tend a flock, pasture, rule; by extension to associate as a friend. The ancient pictographs of the Resh ר and Ayin ע together mean "man watches". The Shepherd closely watches over His flock, often they are His only companions. How Precious to see our Lord as Shepherd, a friend that gently guides us to what He knows we will need for our lives. He watches over our every life detail.

The next verse also paints such a great picture of "still waters". Water in hebrew could have a book written about it alone. Mayim, water, H4325, מים and green pastures, H4999, נאה, na'ah are a word picture for a place of rest. A place for the sheep to drink and receive nourishment. Still, H4496, menuchah מנוחה has some other word families that have to do with sighing, breathing, groaning, etc. When we are satisfied, sometimes we let out a sigh of relief or thankfulness. When we are longing for rest or a unmet need, it can sound more like a groan. Isn't it fascinating the link between our breath and our needs and emotions? The Lord knows our ever want and need. He hears our every sigh and groan. He gently leads the way to the 'still waters'. If we only would realize His way takes us there. Sometimes when we go our own way, it feels like too long in the desert. It even feels hard to breathe for me! The way is long and hard sometimes. Sometimes my journey feels very uphill and alone. Can you relate? But our Shepherd, even if He is our only friend, can comfort , lead, and be a friend to enjoy companionship beside those "still waters". So take a deep breath in, let out a big sigh. He is leading. We can trust He knows the way.

Peace and quiet is so needed in today's world. It resets our nervous system, and brings us back into our parasympathetic nervous system, also known as "rest and digest". May you take some time today, just to breathe. I like to lay on the floor and just breathe. Imagine your Shepherd right there with you. The picture of still water in your mind can help you still your thoughts. Meditate on the Lord, יהוה, and feel the calm and stillness of heart His love and friendship can bring. There is truly nothing more restorative. You will feel better! I promise. Breathwork and inner stillness are the most precious times to be attentive to the still small voice of the Lord's Presence. It is so sweet and refreshing. Even if you can't lie on the floor, you can focus on your breath. Start by just being attentive to the breath and the rhythm you like. The breath is your path to peace. I hope you explore more on that. It truly is the bridge to peace, a connection to your Shepherd.

Shalom, peace, שלום

Cynthia סינתיה