“He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.” Psalm 23:2, 3 NIV
Gazing upon the still waters of a pond, nature reflects back at me. Crouching at the edge to look closer, I see myself.
Looking deeper into the pond, I realize that still waters contain a huge amount of potential energy ready for many purposes, waiting for release. Once in motion, it can become part of a greater whole by flowing from the quiet pond to a small stream to a large river to a big ocean. Alternatively, once released from a hydroelectric dam, water can light up and warm up a city full of homes. In another situation, once flowing, water will follow the path of least resistance – where it is natural for it to go. In this potential energy, I recognize future possibilities for a ministry.
Penetrating the depths of the pond, I sense the hidden undercurrents; forces acting in the background, subtly guiding and directing. I embrace the uniqueness of these undercurrents in my personality, my natural abilities, my spiritual gifts and my God-given passions.
When I take the time to slow down and reflect, like walking beside quiet waters, I give the Lord the opportunity to restore my soul. Restore. What does that mean? To make better. To make whole. To refresh. To come alive. To give energy back. To express love. Lord, you give me hope, taking away despair. I express gladness. I become peaceful. I feel secure. I allow You to control and guide my life. I am not afraid. You build up my confidence. My soul is restored!
While contemplating the attributes of still waters and glowing in personal refreshment, a new picture came into view. A person taking time to slow down and reflect on life’s purposes. A person ready to see God’s will for her next step on this earthly journey. This woman of God peers into the reflecting glass of the quiet pond and looks deep into her own eyes. What does she see? A soul perfectly made by God: like a multi-faceted diamond. Enough inner energy for future endeavors. Undercurrents designed for serving God’s purposes. Her whole being waiting and ready to be used in God’s time, for His plans. Continuing to peer beyond the surface reflection, she explores all the facets of her life: physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual. Is she ready to move beyond the reflection in the quiet waters? To flow into her natural path toward a bigger, more fulfilling experience?
Wow, God has directed my thoughts without restriction! He has given me a picture of a ministry. Could it be my ministry? The “Still Waters Ministry.” Its mission: to encourage people at a crossroads in their life to reflect on their God-given uniqueness; to explore their future direction in God’s plan; and to fulfill their potential through Christ.
Lord, take me to the next step!
(Originally written June 2005)
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