#WorshipWednesday: “Psalm 23 (Surely Goodness, Surely Mercy)”

¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

– 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, ESV –

Paul makes God’s will sound so simple: Rejoice, Pray, Give thanks. But if you’re like me, these practices have been elusive this year.

Thanksgiving calls us back to this, to exercise our grateful hearts after a year of grief and isolation and anxiety. Psalm 23 (and this new setting of it by Shane and Shane) helps me exercise my gratitude.

“Give thanks in all circumstances.”

I pray that you feel how God’s goodness and mercy have followed you this year, like sheepdogs watching a young lamb.

I pray that you have had moments that felt like green pastures and quiet water, like a set table and a full cup. I pray that you have found God’s rest for your soul.

And if you are walking the dark valley of death’s shadow right now, I pray that you see God’s staff and rod on your life, leading and guarding you, comforting you with His presence. He is with you.

“Give thanks in all circumstances.”