The photo above was taken on the Shetland Islands. Yet this scene could be anywhere in the world. Sheep grazing in a green field.

The psalm quoted has been the most comforting to me in times of distress and loss, but also in the good times. Sometimes we find ourselves in a place we don’t want to be. Either in a place of pain–physically or mentally. We might be caring for someone who’s in pain–or even standing by, watching helplessly, a loved one who is suffering. If you’re like me, you’d like to avoid the pain or distress for yourself or your loved one.

Perhaps you’re not waiting for anything or observing anyone in pain or distress. But the time will come, for it comes to each of us. I look at the photo above and notice the sheep are not lying down, but grazing. I didn’t have a photo with the sheep lying down, but eventually they will for what they consume has to go through a process of digestion and fermentation that takes time and yes, lying down.

What are you waiting for? Release from pain or illness? Release from the grief that is tearing you up inside and out? We’re all there at times–being made to lie down and wait.

Let’s look at the psalm in its completeness:

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Whatever you are waiting for, have been through, or will go through, make you who you are. Are you being made to lie down? While you’re there, let Him speak to you.