"Green Pasture"

Lookin’ cross the country,

Seems like I see for miles,

Brings me strong emotion,

My soul inside me smiles.

Something ‘bout green pastures,

And ponds filled with blue water,

Rolling hills and meadows,

And as the day gets hotter,

I rest beneath the willows,

My pony grazing close,

I watch the fluffy cloud banks,

The sky I love the most.

I hear the flies a-buzzin’,

I watch the livestock drink,

I feel the Holy Spirit,

He’s close to me I think.

And after a few moments,

I step back in the saddle,

I have lots more work to do,

And need to doctor cattle.

But I don’t take for granted,

The space far from the crowd,

I love the peace and quiet,

A place that is not loud.

It must have been the Psalmist,

Who said it long ago,

There in those green pastures,

The Lord led him to go.

Where he could find renewing,

And freedom from his fear,

A cup that’s overflowing,

And God’s protection near.

His rod and staff bring comfort,

‘Cause used by him we stay,

Along the paths of righteousness,

And find the peaceful way.

Something ‘bout green pastures,

Makes me feel I’m home,

Grace and goodness follow,

And I am not alone.

“He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength…” (Ps. 23:2-3, NLT)

It works for me, anytime I get alone with God. But it works especially well when I get alone with God in a quiet, country place. He’s everywhere, of course. But out there I seem to sense His presence better. You might in the city, beside the ocean, or on a rooftop. No matter. What’s important is that we find the paths of righteousness and meet Him there. He has promised great benefits. Having all we need, renewing of our strength, protection from enemies, an overflowing cup of blessing, and much more. But we get none of these blessings on our own terms, only His. I hope you find those blessings, and sooner rather than later. Then we will look back and see goodness and mercy pursuing, and an eternal home with the Lord forever.

Lord, help us find You in the quiet place, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Brent Flory, brentflory.com. Used by permission. Thanks, Brent, and God bless you.