Life of the Rainers

Psalm 23

Today was launch Sunday for Grace Church. For those that don't know Jess and I moved to TN to join a church plant where Jess serves as the administrative pastor. We started interviewing I believe in October. We moved in December/January and have been working towards launch for months now and today was the day! We had a great service!

It is 1:00 a.m. on Monday morning and I can't sleep. This isn't unusual. I usually lay in bed awake thinking about Will, worrying, wondering about the "what ifs", what's in the future, blah blah blah... Tonight was no different. But tonight instead of continuing to let satan feed me lies I was reminded of the message given this morning at church.

The series we have started is "Sleepless: What keeps you up at night". This mornings message, "Does God Care, Psalm 23". Psalm 23 was read at Will's funeral service, so I was very interested in hearing more about Psalm 23. This sermon spoke to me. I needed to hear what was spoken.

Ed (our lead pastor) broke down the text into 5 sections. 1. His Provision (verses 1-2) 2. His Path (vs. 3) 3. His Presence (vs. 4) 4. His Protection (vs. 5) 5. His Plan (vs. 6)

Verse 4 says, " 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" Psalm 23:4

"The Lord is there". Ezekiel 48:35

Ed reminded us that as a christian you don't get exempt from evil or "bad", but the Lord promises to be in your presence when you do go through tough situations. He is there!

"Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever". Psalm 23:6 His faithfulness and goodness pursues us. How comforting!

This message gives me comfort and I am so thankful I serve a God that does care. Will I chose to follow His provision, His path, presence, and plan? Will I live under his protection? I pray that I do and I will seek Him more and more every day.

Rachel