He refreshes my soul.

— Psalm 23:3

There is good profit for the shepherd who takes good care of his sheep. Good care means it is less likely for the sheep to suffer disease or exhaustion. Good care means the sheep will more likely fetch a good price at the market.

But that is not the motivation of the Lord our shepherd. The care of our shepherd is driven by love and mercy and the desire for abundant flourishing.

The psalm writer tells us that the Lord refreshes his soul. The kind of care that the psalmist receives as he follows the one who loves him deeply reaches the depths of his soul. It is the kind of care that reminds him that he belongs to the shepherd. The psalmist knows he is beloved, cherished, and precious.

Our culture tends to commodify people, and that is anxiety producing, often leaving us to wonder about ulterior motives. Social media, for example, often encourages us to present false or aspirational impressions of ourselves so that we will be liked.

The Lord’s beloved, however, are secure in the knowledge that they are dearly loved just as they are. They are confident in the knowledge that they belong to the Lord and have purpose and hope because they are his and no other’s.

In what ways does God’s loving care for you refresh your soul?

Lord, slow us down so that we may take time to meditate on your goodness. We thank you that our souls can be refreshed by spending time in your presence. Amen.