my Shepherd

Today is "day 1" of being a big girl. Sort of. My family left Laramie this morning. At first I felt a little panic-y.. I felt alone & very vulnerable. I've planted myself in the corner of Coal Creek Coffee Co. now after some desperate prayers & a good cry listening to "You are for me." I know God will bring comfort through my new "family" here.

"For I am always aware of Your unfailing love, & I have lived according to Your truth." Ps 26:3

i am weak. [I AM Strong.] i am alone. [I AM Here.] i am lost. [I AM the Way.]

Here is where I found my comfort & strength today:

Psalm 23 & what my God is speaking to me...

"The Lord is my Shepherd" He is leading me. He knows what is best for me & will guide & protect me always!

"I have all that I need" I will be in God's house this summer- removed from the rush & stress of the world. He will provide for me.

"He lets me rest" He will be my energy when I am weary. He fills me when I feel emotionally drained. I can rest. He invites me to sit. Be sill. "He renews my strength."

"He guides me along right paths" I am here because HE (the GOD of the Universe) is leading me along this path. Right ≠ Easy. Right ≠ Safe. Right ≠ Comfortable.

RIGHT = GOOD.

"...bringing honor to His name" I am living to please Him. I bring Him honor by surrendering my comforts, desires, selfishness.

"I will not be afraid, for YOU are CLOSE BESIDE ME" I am not alone!!

"Your rod & staff protect & comfort me" As I obey the call of the Lord, I will be protected. "And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us? And if our God is for us, then what could stand against??" He will comfort me. He will reassure me that I am at Home with Him."

"My cup overflows with blessings" I am SO loved & blessed by my family & friends. This is only the beginning because He is introducing me to new friends & family this summer.

"Surely Your goodness & unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life" Are these not days of my life? Why should I feel alone? His goodness & unfailing love are pursuing me now. PURSUING me. I cannot do anything to change that.

"& I will LIVE" I will be ALIVE. Truly alive in the presence of my God!

"...in the house of the Lord" With the only One who really makes a difference. The One who Loves me. Who wants me. In His HOME.

"FOREVER." Forever. Forever.