Sometimes the path God has for us is easy to follow, like this side trail I saw today. Wide, level, well-traveled, and easy to see.
But I can’t see around that bend in the trail! Should I tremble and quake at the unknown that lies ahead?
No.
I will trust the One I follow, whose voice leads me to quiet meadows and alongside peaceful streams under deep blue skies where I can stroll without care.
I will follow the One who leads me along rocky heights and through deep, dark canyons under stormy skies, knowing he will steady my faltering steps.
No matter where he leads, I will follow my Good Shepherd and trust his plan.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.
Even 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.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Psalm 23 NLT
Jesus is the Good Shepherd. You, too, can trust him with your life. Will you choose to follow him no matter what the path ahead looks like?
Lauri Hawley 
Beautiful post–and photos. Did you take them?
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Thank you, yes I did! Captured here and there, near and far. 😊
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Ok, God, I’ll follow You,
and trust things will turn out OK,
but if to my own heart I’m true,
I gotta ask, is this the way?
I mean, You are omnipotent,
and You’re only gonna laugh
at obstacles that will prevent
my progress, and just block my path.
Will You then push them aside
with Your great big holy feet?
Or must I here remain, abide,
shrinking in sad grim defeat
with a faith that was too small
to climb the very lowest wall?
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Lauri, this is beautiful. I so appreciate your words here, dear friend.
FMF#15
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Thank you, Paula. 😊
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Beautiful reminder, Lauri, that He leads us beside the still waters, but is always with us – even through “deep, dark canyons under stormy skies” – we can trust Him.
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Amen!
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Beautiful post! I love the images you shared and the Psalm. Have you ever studied the geography of Israel in relationship to that Psalm? It is very interesting. That you for this encouragement today! Blessings.
FMF#12
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Hubby and I were in Israel this year, and got to see it for ourselves! Absolutely amazing. I’ll have to add more study to our experience there. 😊
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That would be great Lauri! Please share! I have been studying the geography of Israel the last couple of years, but have never been there. I would love to go.
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Setting feet on the ground brings such a different perspective to the stories I grew up with. I hope one day you can make it there, Beth!
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The pictures you chose for this post are beautiful. I was thinking of Psalm 23 before you wrapped up your post describing Jesus as our Good Shepherd. I needed this encouraging reminder today.
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I’m so glad it was timely. 😊
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