Followed, Chased, Pursued
Mom and I were sitting in her kitchen one morning a few years back, enjoying a simple breakfast together. I asked Mom, “What is your favorite Bible passage?” She didn't hesitate: Psalm 23.
There is much that I, too, love about the very familiar Twenty-third Psalm. The more I read and meditate on its truths, the more encouragement I hear from God.
The engraved stone that rests on our fireplace hearth was a gift from two friends to me after Mom moved to heaven. On the stone, Psalm 23:1 is etched in the New Living Translation. “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” Often in the mornings, I sit in our overstuffed chair, facing this memorial stone, and pray, “God, what are my needs that You want to supply today?” It isn't too long before I hear His whisper.
Sue, will you trust me for that hard conversation you're anticipating?
Sue, will you allow me to lead the Bible study as you lead today?
Sue, will you listen to my wisdom as you make that decision?
Several weeks ago, I was pondering the first phrase of verse 6, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.” (ESV) The thought came, I only know what is following me, when I turn around and look back. Looking over my shoulder, I see God's goodness in many ways. He led in that crazy decision to move from New Jersey to Michigan for college; His Word was clear to Bill and me as we sought His counsel on our friendship turned marriage; His presence was a gift as tears flowed in many situations. God's goodness and mercy have been abundant.
Recently, I was connecting with one of my next-generation friends, Melody.
I asked Melody what scriptures speak to her about being beloved. I was surprised when she responded, Psalm 23, especially in The Message or The Passion Translation.
Your beauty and love chase after me every day of my life.
Psalm 23:6, The Message
Only goodness and tender love pursue me all the days of my life.
Psalm 23:6, The Passion Translation
Not only does God's great love follow me, but God chases after me and pursues me with His love! YES, Psalm 23:6 speaks loudly; it shouts God's love for every generation.
My sister struggled with lung disease for years. We often connected across the miles by phone. My tears flowed freely the evening she realized God was pursuing her, and she responded to his invitation to join his family. God, in his wisdom and providence, also pursued me that evening. My salvation story was not only for me, but it was also for my sister, a gift to me for her.
LIFE-GIVING ENCOURAGEMENT
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me (pursue me, chase after me) all the days of my life.” I can only see what is behind me if I turn around and look. When I notice and remember what God has entrusted to me, I experience God chasing after me, and I can pass it on; it is also for you.
Jan Karon’s Mitford Series is one of my favorite summer reads. “She must abide with this epiphany, let it distill,” from My Beloved, by Jan Karon.
By looking back over my shoulder and remembering the truths of Psalm 23:6, they are distilling themselves in my heart and life.
PRAYER
Father, thank you so much for Your abundant love for us. Not only do you share Your love for us, You share Your love through us. God, help me. Help us to be women who live in the present and also look back to remember how Your love met us in our times of need.
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Sharon W. Betters is a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, pastor’s wife, and cofounder of MARKINC Ministries, where she is the Director of Resource Development. Sharon is the author of several books, including Treasures of Encouragement, Treasures in Darkness, and co-author with Susan Hunt of Aging with Grace. She is the co-host of the Help & Hope podcast and writes Daily Treasure, an online devotional.
Contact Sharon with comments or questions at dailytreasure@markinc.org.
