He may not lighten your dark places, but he will lighten your load.

As you come to “dark places” in your life, just reach out for the Hand of the Shepherd.

~~Helen Steiner Rice  

This morning’s prayer and meditation for Sally’s healing comes from Take Heart, Oh God: Riches from the Greatest Christian Women Writers of All Time.

She held him tightly, mourning his numbered days as cancer devoured the body of her loving husband. During those dark days, very little light or laughter crept into her world.

Life has its dark, scary places. Nobody welcomes emotional or physical pain, disappointment, or death. At one time or another we all walk through a valley of shadow.

The bright spot is assurance that we can reach out to a gentle Shepherd to guide us through. We can rest in his goodness even in the badness of a situation. During the days—or weeks or months—when you cannot see the light or know what to do or say, simply reach out for his hand. He’s there. He promised to never leave you, even when you walk through the valley of shadow. He’s there to comfort, sustain, empower, and provide for you.

He may not lighten your dark places, but he will lighten your load.

Prayer for Meditation

I’m reaching out for you, gentle Shepherd. Take my hand through this dark valley.

Scripture for Meditation—Psalm 23

The LORD is my Shepherd;

I have all that I need.

He lets me rest in green meadows;

he leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.

He guides me along right paths,

bringing honor to his name.

Even when I walk

through the darkest valley,

I will not be afraid,

for you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff

Protect and comfort me.

in the presence of my enemies.

You honor me by anointing my head with oil

My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me

all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the LORD

forever. 

Music for Meditation 

Waiting For the Rain

 

If you feel led to do so, please post a note of encouragement in the comment section below, or send your note by email to PrayersForSally@gmail.com