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Our greatest concern in taking care of ourselves ought to be the state of our souls. Dallas Willard considers our soul like the operating system in our computers running all the programs and apps we interact with. In this sense, it is “hidden” but hardly uninvolved in our daily choices and responses. The key verse above, the world-famous “Shepherd’s Psalm,” begins by addressing how to care for our souls. We are to take ourselves outside. Get out under the broad, blue sky the Hebrews called “heaven,” where we can feel the gentle breeze on our faces and be reminded that we are greatly loved by our loving Father in Heaven. Jesus, our Shepherd, tells us to, “Look at the birds of the air…consider the lilies of the field…” to settle our anxious souls. 

This week, find time to turn off the “glowing rectangles” that drain and deplete us. Rather, read Matthew 6:25-34, head outdoors, and follow the instructions. Let Him have some time with you in His beautiful creation, and you will notice how He restores your soul. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you are my Shepherd. You know me better than I know myself. You know what I need. You bring me out here under this amazing, blue Heaven to behold all this life around me. You take me away with You so I can rest with You. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for restoring my soul. Amen.

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