Graze: To feed on growing grasses.



The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.

-Ps. 23:1-6

Growing up on a farm, I used to watch the cows, sheep & horses graze in the pasture. Each morning we would open the gate to the barnyard and they knew there was freedom from that small pen they were in. They also knew there was nice green grass beyond the barnyard. Once the gate was open, look out because those animals wanted to get where the tall, green grass grew – the pasture! They would take off sometimes even running up the old fenced lane that went up over the hill through the cornfield to the lush green pasture on the other side of the farm. There they would graze for a while then lay down and rest for a while then graze some more. They did this all day long. Come evening we would go over to the pasture’s edge and call the cows – 'come boss, 'come boss. They would gather at the pasture gate. Sometimes we would have to go round up a few stragglers and when all were accounted for, we’d open the lane gate and back over the hill they would go to the barnyard for the night. The next morning was the same routine, day after day. What a life, huh?!

Oh that we could just graze and rest in shady green pastures all day long! But we can rest and graze in God’s green pastures and restore our souls . . . The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. (Ps. 23:1) I believe God wants us to slow down and “rest” and “graze” and “feed” on His Word. Life throws so many things our way and we are so busy – busy doing good things. But are we running on empty a good share of the time? Are we feeling stretched to extreme? Are we content with who we are in God’s divine providence? Slow down and take some time to just leisurely graze, rest a while, then graze and feed on the good things God has provided for you. Graze, rest, and enjoy the “shady green pastures” of God’s abundant love, grace, and mercy.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Hints for a Hope-Filled Day

1.  Today I Will Not Strike Back
If someone is rude, impatient, or unkind, I will not respond in a like manner.

2.  Today I Will Ask God to Bless My "Enemy"
If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual.

3.  Today I Will Be Careful About What I Say
I will carefully choose and guard my words, being certain that I do not spread gossip.

4.  Today I Will Go The Extra Mile
I wil find ways to share the burden of another.

5.  Today I Will Forgive
I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.

6.  Today I Will Do Something Nice For Someone
I will reach out and bless the life of another.

7.  Today I Will Raise The Spirits Of Someone Who Is Discouraged
My smile, my words, my expression of support can make the difference to someone wrestling with life.

8.  Today I Will Nurture My Body
I will eat less; I will strive to eat more healthy foods.  I will thank God for this temple I live in.

9.  Today I Will Grow Spiritually
I will spend a little more time in prayer. I will find a quiet place and listen to God's voice!

10.  Today I Will Celebrate Forgiveness In Christ
I will continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of my Lord, my rock and my salvation. 
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