Abundant Grace DailySample

Living Psalm 23 Daily

How do you cash in on all these abundant provisions about which we’ve been reading over the last six days? By accessing God’s unlimited grace daily. One day at a time.

There’s a story in Exodus 16 that holds the key. God's people were grumbling about lack of food, which underlines how undeserving and in need of grace they were. God supplied manna every morning. Manna was a bread-like food that tasted like wafers with honey. Daily bread.

There was more than enough food for each family. Exodus 16:35 describes the extent of God’s provision: “The sons of Israel ate the manna for forty years until they came to the border of the land of Canaan. That's more than a truckload, an abundance. Every single day, with a double portion on the Sabbath.”

Jesus taught his disciples to pray: “Give us this day our daily bread.” He possibly had the Exodus 16 passage in mind. Notice the phrase this day.

We can enter into all of the abundant grace of Psalm 23 one day at a time—by asking for it, phrase by phrase.

The LORD is my Shepherd, I lack nothing.

As you wake up each morning - even before your feet hit the floor - say to yourself, “I have everything I really need today because Jesus is my faithful Shepherd.” Your soul will be focused on the Shepherd, rather than on the things he provides.

Remind yourself that Christ is all you need, despite the fact that all your wants may not be satisfied.

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters.

Each day, accept his invitation to be still. Your Shepherd knows your tendency to rush here and there. Notice he makes you lie down. Be alert to any opportunities to ease back. Carve out Sabbath moments, where you cease from striving. Sit in his presence, meditate on his Word, pour out expressions of gratitude.

Remind yourself today to allow the Lord Jesus to slow you down and infuse you with his peace.

He restores my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

Every day, allow Jesus the Healer to refresh and recalibrate your soul. Ask the Holy Spirit to breathe new life into you. He knows that you need this. Look for ways your soul-Shepherd is guiding you. Ask for his leading. Pause to pray before, during, and after every appointment.

Remind yourself that Christ is your Healer and your Guide.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.

Today may have shadows, difficulties, pains, or unexpected challenges. Tell yourself, “The LORD, my shepherd, is right here with me.” Instead of worrying about what tomorrow may bring, meditate on the phrase I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Claim the promise of your Shepherd’s presence and watch fear loosen its grip. Apply this verse in prayer for any of your friends who are in the darkest valley right now.

Remind yourself today to take an “Emmaus” walk with your risen, living Savior, who has conquered death and brought life to light through the gospel.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.

Living into the truth of these words daily means that, even when people oppose you or circumstances transpire against you, you will look out for a “table” God has prepared for you. Be open to unexpected blessings he drops onto your lap.

Remind yourself this day that Jesus overcame the Enemy of our souls by his death, and delights to spread out a lavish table for you.

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Living today with these inspiring words in mind is a reminder that God’s grace is abundant. He pours out his fragrant oil on your head. Your cup is not just full; it is overflowing.

Remind yourself today that Christ came to give you life, and have it to the full. Abundant life!

Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

What a blessed state of mind in which you can rest your head on your pillow at the end of each day! Pause to reflect on all the ways that your loving Shepherd has pursued you with touches of goodness and mercy. Expect that he will do so, not just this day but every day, until you are eternally in his presence.

Remind yourself as this day closes, that Jesus is the first and the last, the ever-living one. That he died, is alive and holds the keys of death and Hades (Revelation 1:17-18).

Christ is all, and more than all you will ever need. With him, you can live out your whole life lacking nothing.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, I’m in awe of you. I worship you today. You are all I really need. I’m pouring out my thanks for every phrase in this timeless psalm. You are so gracious to me. Lead me, restore me, and satisfy me with your love daily. In your name, I ask this. Amen.