Under His Care: A 52-Week Journey with the Shepherd

Freedom Leaders
Feb 3
2 min read

Week 3 - Peace: The Shepherd Who Calms and Restores

Psalms 23:2–3

“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.He restoreth my soul.”

Scripture Focus

Primary: Psalm 23:2–3
Supporting: Isaiah 26:3; John 14:27

Shepherd’s Insight

Peace in Psalm 23 is not accidental, it is intentional. David says the Shepherd makes him lie down. Sheep do not naturally rest when they feel threatened, hurried, or overstimulated. The Shepherd intervenes, slowing the pace so restoration can take place.

Still waters are not just calm waters; they are safe waters. Sheep refuse to drink from rushing streams because fear disrupts nourishment. In the same way, anxiety, overload, and inner noise prevent the soul from being restored, even when provision is nearby.

Notice the order: peace comes before restoration. God does not heal a frantic soul. He first quiets it. This means peace is not the reward for having everything together, it is the environment in which God does His deepest work.

This week, the Shepherd invites us to release fear-driven momentum and trust His leadership into rest. Peace is not weakness. Peace is alignment.

Formation Thought

Peace is the soil where restoration grows. God restores the soul He is allowed to quiet.

Reflection Questions

What areas of your life currently feel rushed, heavy, or noisy?
How do you usually respond when God slows you down - resistance or trust?
What might God be trying to restore in you through rest rather than activity?

Prayer

Good Shepherd,You know the weight my soul has been carrying.Lead me away from anxious striving and inner noise.Teach me to rest without guilt and to trust You in stillness.Restore what has been worn, fragmented, or neglected within me.I receive Your peace today.Amen.

Weekly Practice

Practice Rest - Choose one intentional moment each day to pause; no multitasking, no rushing. Sit quietly with God for a few minutes and breathe deeply. As you do, pray slowly:“Lord, lead me beside still waters. Restore my soul.”