He Restores my Soul!

Where do you find restoration?

Have you been seeking peace and not sure where to turn?

In the bible in the book of Psalms chapter 23 we find what is typically known as “The Lord’s Prayer.”
David, a shepherd, who later became a king and frequently suffered with depression, is calling out to God and reflecting on His goodness and ability to restore.

The Great Shepherd

David recognizes God as his shepherd or caretaker. Because God watches over him, he does not find himself in need of anything. All of his needs are met. Just as sheep with a shepherd, David can rest in green pastures, beside still waters (v. 2). His paths are righteousness (v. 3), even though he walks through the valley of the shadow of death (v. 4).

A Royal Banquet

The last portion of Psalm 23 leads to a different scenario, one in which David sits at a table among his enemies, likely at a royal banquet. In this word picture, he has no fear of his enemies, he is anointed (which literally means set apart as being special), and his cup overflows (i.e. he has plenty to drink). He feels blessed with goodness and mercy and will live in God’s house forever (v. 6).

A Reflection of 3 Principles

A look at the entire Psalm provides three principles for “restoring my soul.” These include rest, reflection, and replenishment.

1. David appears to be at rest when he wrote this Psalm. This was not a song to prepare for battle or celebrate a holy day, but rather to enjoy the relaxation in the presence of God.
2. Second, restoration involved reflection. His soul was restored as he looked at life from God’s perspective. He felt protected, safe, and secure under the leadership of God.
3. Third, his restoration included replenishment. Both rest and reflection led to a renewed energy to live for and be passionate toward God. This replenishment also included an anticipation to be with God forever in the future (v. 6).

With this perspective on life, David could live with a restored soul, prepared for the problems of the day. He knew God was with him, cared for him, and would never leave his side. There was no battle too big for him to face with God in his life.

Conclusion

Improving our mental health starts with a solid foundation. Where you choose to base this foundation can have a profound impact on your overall health including mental health. If we wish to see God restore our lives and our soul, we must make time to rest, reflect, and replenish. We cannot expect to live with a fresh sense of God’s presence in our lives if we constantly rush from one issue to the next. All of this takes time. Focus on God and His greatness and ask Him to renew you with peace, hope, and joy for your life.