Lesson #3 of the Trail Boss is he provides
RESTORATION
“He restores my soul.” The word for restores can mean bring me to repentance. But since the word translated soul is actually life, it means being restored to health-physically and spiritually.
Phillip Keller tells the story of what is called a “cast down” sheep. A heavy, fat, or long-fleeced sheep will lie down comfortably in a depression or little hollow in the ground. It may roll on its side to stretch out and relax. The center of gravity shifts so that it turns on its back far enough that the feet no longer touch the ground. Panic sets in and they start to paw frantically. That makes it worse and they roll over even further. Now it is impossible to turn over and regain its footing and in this position gases build up in the body, cutting off circulation to the legs, and it is often just a matter of hours before the sheep will die.
Mr. Keller would look for circling buzzards and run to that point. He would then slowly turn the sheep over by straddling it and standing it on its legs, all the time rubbing them while talking to her. He was trying to restore the circulation. When they did start to walk they would stumble, stagger and collapse in a heap. Little by little the sheep would regain its legs and scamper back to the flock.
For those of us who are Christ-followers we will sometimes find ourselves “on our back.” We need restored. God is in the restoration business.
So ends lesson #3.
Again I am indebted to A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 by Phillip Keller for his insights.
I kid you not, restoration was a word focus word for the day in my morning Bible study (Zondervan study bible) earlier this week! – http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com
it is a good word!! Thanks for coming by Gingi
I think we’re gonna be so shocked as to how often and how much of our life is spent being restored by the gracious hand of our Father.
I totally agree with you Floyd. i am already bowled over.
Certainly, we all stumble and fall, finding we need restoration from our Lord. Thank goodness He is there to always help us gain our footing once again.
Blessings, Bill!
I’m constantly glad He is there Martha. I’d be lost without Him.
This is a wonderful post. There are many times that I am in need of restoration. And, I am so thankful that the Father, who sits high, is willing to look low, and place me back on solid ground. Much joy!
Thanks for your kind words Cynthia. And thanks for visiting my blog.