He leads me beside quiet waters.

— Psalm 23:2

Water bottles are everywhere these days. Most of us know that our bodies need water and that dehydration can have devastating consequences.

A good shepherd knows that the dry air and relentless sun in a desert climate can dry out and weaken sheep quickly. And where might the shepherd find a good source of water for his sheep? Well, it’s important to know that sheep cannot drink from a fast-flowing stream. They can lose their footing and drown in too forceful a flow. A good shepherd will take his staff and make a hollow in the ground next to the stream where the water can pool and be safe for the sheep to drink from.

There are many times when life moves so fast that it can feel like we are drinking from a firehose. Many of life’s experiences can be very good, but there are times when even the good things can be overwhelming. The shepherd not only sets a sustainable pace for us but also helps us to slow down so that we can take in all the good that is going on around us, making it more manageable.

The Lord my shepherd provides me with two times of quiet waters each day. Every morning and evening I have a quiet time.

Where might the shepherd be inviting you to rest and reflect beside still waters that will refresh your soul?

Good Shepherd, we live in a busy, noisy world. Lead us to quiet places where we can be revived by your presence in our lives. Amen.