He Leads Me, Psalm23:2

Today’s Thought for the Day is from Josie McFarlane.
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I would like to share with you how the Lord, my Shepherd, has been leading me.

During the months of lockdown I often walked to the Boardwalk Restaurant. I would lean against the metal barrier - sometimes I would pray, meditate or just quietly look around. I didn’t know this would be my next place of employment, but my Shepherd knew.

In August I returned to work in The Almond Tree and it was on September 19th we were told the Coffee Shop would be closing. We were encouraged to start looking for employment so that we could have something in place as soon as possible after we closed in December or even before then. That evening I began my search for a job and saw a vacancy at the Boardwalk.

On the Monday a few of us were going to the Boardwalk and my sister Mary encouraged me to phone the restaurant in advance and enquire about the vacancy. I did - and an interview was arranged for after our lunch. I left the restaurant with a job - my starting date was the next morning! There was much to give thanks for as the job was very suitable in many ways.

Then very recently on a Sunday morning while I was at work the presence of Jesus drew very near. There came the assurance that this was the place where God wanted me to be and I felt such joy. But that was shattered a few minutes later when I was called to the General Manager’s Office and told she was about to terminate my employment. However, as we spoke it became clear there had been a misunderstanding about the job description and she apologised for that.

I was very relieved and said that when I had to work on a Sunday, in future, I would no longer ask to get away early to go to church. But to my astonishment she replied, ‘You will go to church every Sunday. I won’t come between you and your religion'. I couldn’t believe my ears! I knew my Jesus had worked everything out for me.

Yes, He leads me. He smoothed the way and brought peace in the midst of misunderstanding. In the dark valley He is right there, to help and protect.

Be encouraged today. The Lord your Shepherd leads you. If you are in a place of peace and rest, rejoice in that place. Your Shepherd knows what you need. He gives green meadows and peaceful streams. If life is difficult - be encouraged for He is still close beside you. May each one of us know this truth  - that He leads us and He is our Lord, Shepherd, Saviour, King and Friend.
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 Jesus shall lead me night and day
Jesus shall lead me all the way
He is the truest friend to me
For I remember Calvary.
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Josie