15
MINUTES with Psalm 23 and God
- John Piippo, PhD
This exercise
is at the heart of what I teach pastors and leaders and seminary students. If
we have more time, I ask them to spend an hour with God and Ps. 23.
This shortened version could work as a small group exercise. Or, for a leader's meeting or committee meeting.
THE INSTRUCTIONS
Take a minute
to prepare to meet with God. Put your cell phone and any other distractions
away.
Use Psalm 23
for your meditation. Biblically, to meditate is to ponder something. Meditation
is repetitive. Meditate on Ps. 23 for 15 minutes.
During this
time, keep a spiritual journal. A spiritual journal is a record of God’s voice
and activity in your life. When God speaks to you about you, write it down.
(On the other side of this paper.)
If your mind wanders, it will wander towards something like
a burden. Write down where it wanders to. “Cast your burdens on Him, for He
cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
When the 15
minutes are over, ask the group: Is there anyone who would share what God said
to you during this time?
PSALM
23
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the
presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil, My cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
