On Friday nights, we have been watching a video series entitled, “Travelling Light” by Max Lucado. The premise is walking through the chapter of Psalm 23 and understanding how God is our Shepherd. And as our Shepherd, He takes care of us in every aspect of our lives. Just like an earthly shepherd cares for his sheep.
Max delves into different areas of our lives where we tend to pick up baggage and become very weighed down. Baggage pieces like worry, fear, anger, guilt, and so forth. Some baggage becomes so heavy to carry we can barely even walk sometimes.
But our Heavenly Shepherd invites us to give our baggage to Him. To let Him carry that load that is weighing us down. But how do we give it up? How do we stop carrying the load and hand it to Him?
Yesterday, my husband David and I took the opportunity to spend the afternoon out in nature. We explored trails and scenic byways in the beautiful little coastal towns of Saint Michaels and Tilghman Island. As we walked, breathed in the fresh air, soaked in the sunshine, and spent time in prayer, I could sense some of my own baggage of worry beginning to lift from my heart.
The secret is taking time to come apart from everything that is going on and just be in the presence of God. Nature is a perfect venue to experience closeness to the One who has created everything. Physically, our bodies actually experience positive changes just by taking a strolling walk and letting our senses be refreshed by all around us.
Combining time in nature with praying and reflecting on Bible promises is a beautiful remedy to the struggles we face. Some of my favorite moments during our walk yesterday were gazing across the beautiful bodies of water.
And hearing His voice say, “He leads me beside the still waters, He restores my soul.”
Take time this week to be outside in nature. Enjoy moments of quietness with Your Savior. Let Him speak to your heart and refresh your soul. The joy of the Lord is our strength.
