Today, my devotional readings brought me to Psalm 23, a most beloved portion of God’s Word. On Good Friday, we remember that a sword was awakened against the Chief Shepherd when Jesus was crucified on Calvary’s cross (Zechariah 13:7) so that we might experience today and for eternity the intimate, shepherding care of our Lord.Psalm 23 helps us to pray through our fears. Here is a short prayer of confession of sin for you to use, internalize, and make it your own.
Heavenly Father,
Your goodness and mercy follow us
all the days of our lives.
Yet we confess that slavish fear
often drives our decisions.
Forgive us for allowing
the fears of rejection, failure, and death
to immobilize us.
Your sword was awakened
against Your Shepherd
so that we might experience
Your faithful provision, constant presence, and loyal love.
Liberate us from the shackles of fear
so that we live more joyfully and contentedly,
knowing that You carry Your lambs in Your arms.
For we make our prayer in Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
2Cherish2Commend 