Effie Darlene Barba

Jehovah Rapha, my healer, “restoreth my soul” (Psalm 23:2).  The Good Shepherd is my healer.  Psalm 22 and 23 are referred to as Messianic Psalms as they point us to Christ Jesus.  Psalm 22 began with, “My God, My God why hast thou forsaken me?”  These are the same words spoken by Jesus Christ on the cross when all our sin and shame were laid upon His shoulders.  The perfect, righteous son of God abandoned for a moment in time.  Separated from God the Father and the Holy Spirit. God’s wrath was poured out upon His Beloved Son on our behalf.  That by faith in His finished work on the cross we might have our soul restored to God by Grace alone.

He is the healer of our soul, cleansing us from all guilt, though we are guilty. Jesus Christ willingly paid the price, was for a moment forsaken, so that we who accept His gift of salvation might never be forsaken.  Our soul restored to a perfect, eternal relationship with God; because, Jesus Christ redeemed us from our sin.  A few moments after crying out to the Father, Jesus said, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46). Trusting fully that the Father would raise Him from the dead, He died upon the cross, that we might live with Him eternally.

A Soul Restored

Because of sin, our soul is in an eternal state of separation from God until we accept His gift of salvation.  To have our soul restored, we need only believe in the finished work of Jesus Christ upon the cross.  God, Himself paid the price that we might be redeemed. Therein, we might have our soul restored to the place it was created for, eternally in His presence with a loving relationship with our Creator.

Do you ever feel lost, abandoned, or alone?  Come to Jesus, and have your soul restored! He has promised to never leave you.  Even in those moments when you feel He has left you, He is ever present.  “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.  The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together” (Romans 8:15-17).

Whatever sorrow or grief you may face, you are never alone, if you know Jesus Christ as your Savior.  With your soul restored, you may rejoice. Nothing can ever again separate you from the love of Christ (Romans 8:35).  “For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

The Good Shepherd restoreth your soul to the place of eternal presence with Him. If only you accept His gift of salvation.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.

ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?

If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here

Or if you would like to tell me your story or thoughts  comment here

Just released:

Do You Want to Know the Secret to Abiding Steadfast Joy?

ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY

A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.

WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”

Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.

You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.

ANOTHER Book Available

God called upon a layman to “Build That Wall” around Jerusalem in 444 B.C. Nehemiah had no former political position, nor was he among the spiritually elite. He held a comfortable prestigious position in the royal palace of the Persian King Artaxerxes. Yet, God called him out, to leave his comfort behind and to go to build the wall for his people. He met with great opposition, political corruption, and threats; yet, he stands out as a great leader.  This is an in-depth study of Nehemiah, followed by an apologetic argument discussing “the Evil within Our own nation”, how we let it in and what we must do now as Christians.

You can find this and all my books on Amazon.com, search Effie Darlene Barba or click this link to be taken there

OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE

If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.

Or for inspirational photos or home decor click here.

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2018
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Footnotes and Credits:

Art work by Ron

Having finally surrendered to the truth that God asked me to leave the life I love in Missouri to start afresh in Florida, I became anxious to do just that.  The opportunity to be here near Alberto and his family has been such a blessing.  My job has been a blessing as well. So many wonderful people I have had the opportunity to know.  The veterans and the physicians I serve here each are so dear to me, as are so many of my coworkers.  Yet, God has asked I go to live with my other son.  At first, letting go of my things and my life here seemed hard; but, perfect love opens one’s hands and lets go of all the “stuff” we try to cling to, trusting God.   Surrendering to His Will, knowing “He leadeth me beside still waters” Psalm 23:2. I am ready to go.

But, then He asked I wait.  I waited as I applied for job after job while being rejected.  Then, finally I received the call that I was being offered a job; yet, I would need to wait for the letter offering the job.  Three weeks passed with no letter and I became anxious.  What happened with I trust God, His timing and His plan?  I tend to want to run ahead when God says go instead of waiting patiently.  Thirsting to do as He asked, I rush ahead pulling His hand instead of letting Him lead me.  I run toward the turbulent waters to quench my thirst, instead of letting Him lead me beside the still waters.

FINDING THE STILL WATERS

So, it was, I woke up Thursday and saw another job for which I knew I was qualified. I called my son in Florida, anxiously.  “Should I apply for that job while awaiting the confirmation of the other?  The deadline to apply was approaching quickly.”  Ah, but Ron replied, “Mom, just be still.  God’s timing is perfect.”  Psalm 46:10: “Be still and know that I am God” came into my mind.  Ron was right.  Yet, God being so gracious to me, and knowing my heart; the letter came that very evening.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore, will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah” (Psalm 46:10).

As our Great Shepherd, God leads us beside the still waters. Just like little children, we too often tend to either try to pull our hands loose to walk alone or run ahead.  Just like foolish sheep we try to find our own water and become frightened with our own shadow as we look into the turbulent streams.  Yet, the Shepherd knows and will lead us to the still waters, if only we surrender to His hand leading us.

SURRENDER BRINGS PEACE

Jesus said, “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” John 4:14.  Sitting still, trusting Him to quench every thirst, He provides within us the well of water that will never dry.

Thank God, my anxious moments are few and far between anymore.  As I wrote in Abiding, Steadfast Faith, God has taught me that faith is “knowing He IS and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.  Yet, I have learned my anxious moments come only when I become complacent about my time with Him.  Yes, I get up early every morning to read His word and to pray; but, there are those days when life fills my mind.  On those days, my heart is not listening.  I am going through the motions; but, that is not what He asks.

He knows me so well.  His patience, grace and mercy reach out to calm my soul so that I surrender and let Him lead me at His pace.  No longer trying to run ahead or pull back, I trust Him to lead me beside the still waters. He is Jehovah Shalom, my peace.

How to Surrender as “He Leadeth Me Beside Still Waters”

When Satan whispers words of fear to your heart, stop.  Stand still and ask God to calm your fears, acknowledging to Him your lack of faith at the time. He is the “author and the finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2).  He giveth faith to those who ask for it. Tell Satan to go to hell where he belongs.  Quote scripture.  Call a family member or friend whom you know will remind you of the truth.  Pray and then your heart will surrender.

It is much like the song Lauren Daigle wrote and sings:

Letting go of every single dream
I lay each one down at Your feet
Every moment of my wandering
Never changes what You see
I try to win this war
I confess, my hands are weary, I need Your rest
Mighty warrior, king of the fight
No matter what I face You’re by my side

When You don’t move the mountains
I’m needing You to move
When You don’t part the waters
I wish I could walk through
When You don’t give the answers
As I cry out to You
I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You[1]

I encourage you to listen to this song when anxiety tries to enter your heart.  It can be found on her YouTube channel at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_aVFVveJNs

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.

ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?

If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here

Or if you would like to tell me your story or thoughts  comment here

OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE

If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.

Or for inspirational photos or home decor click here.

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2018
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Footnotes and Credits:

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_aVFVveJNs

Photo by Yoann Boyer on Unsplash,  The Inscription I added.

As David, a shepherd, wrote the 23^rd Psalm, he with first hand knowledge spoke of the Good Shepherd.  The Bible often speaks of God as the Good Shepherd and we, who follow Him, as His sheep.  We may want to believe we are lions and lionesses; however, God sees us as helpless sheep in need of the Shepherd to protect and guide us.  “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures” (Psalm 23:1-2).  Why would God have to make us to lie down in green pastures?  Wouldn’t that be what we would want to do?  To be filled with the nourishing, lush word of God that helps us to grow.  To rest in His presence.  Imagine the scene.  Filled with all the nourishing grain, to then rest, digesting His word, unafraid or touched by the world around us.

Phillip Keller, also a shepherd, wrote a book titled, A Shepherd’s Look at Psalm 23.  In it he points out that for sheep to lie down, four requirements must be met.  They will not lie down unless they are free from fear, as they are very timid easily frightened creatures.  Because their only defense is to run from the enemy, they stand ready to bolt away.  Secondly, because of their social structure, when left alone they tend to set up an order in which the larger or older sheep seek dominance by butting or knocking down the weaker ones. The weaker ones then cannot rest.  (Sounds a little like us).  Thirdly, they cannot lie down or rest when being tortured by pests such as flies or parasites.  And fourth, they will not lie down when feeling hunger. When the hunger of our soul is not fed, we seek satisfaction elsewhere.

GREEN PASTURES

In the pastures surrounding Jerusalem, David knew very well that the shepherd must work diligently to provide green pastures.  As Keller points out, “Green pastures did not just happen by chance. Green pastures were the product of tremendous labor, time and skill in land use.  Green pastures were the result of clearing rough, rocky land;  tearing out brush and roots and stumps; of deep plowing and careful soil preparation; seeding and planting special grains and legumes; of irrigating with water and husbanding with care the crops of forage that would fed the flocks”[1]  Is that not what God does with our lives as well?  He clears the brush, plants and waters the seeds in our minds and hearts that we might find the rich, nourishing foliage in His word, where we can lie down to rest in His presence.

THE BULLY SHEEP

In Ezekiel 34, Israel was warned when those priests called to shepherd the flock took care of only themselves pushing aside and not allowing the flock to be nourished as God intended.  How often today, do we see the same!  Those who call themselves Christians placing stumbling blocks for other Christians.  Wanting to make themselves seem superior in their own eyes, they fail to teach the truth of the word or encourage other Christians to grow.  Instead of reaching out a helping hand, they condemn a fallen one, not realizing their own sin of pride.  We all stumble and fail God at times and it behooves us to humbly remember that it is grace alone that saved us. In that humility, we must reach out to our brothers and sisters in Christ with a helping hand to guide them safely back to the green pasture.

God promised that even if our earthly shepherds fail, He will seek us out when we have wandered astray.  Then, He will judge the false shepherds who drove us away. (Ezekiel 34:10). “For thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I, even I, will both search my sheep, and seek them out…. I will feed my flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Lord God.  I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick” Ezekiel 34: 11,15-16).

FREE FROM PESTS

The shepherd must carefully tend to his sheep and keep the “pests” from penetrating and molesting the sheep.  God has provided every believer with the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide and to protect us from the pestering words of Satan which whispers in our hearts and minds.  We have the Comforter with us to remind us of the truth of the word.  He recalls in our hearts, scriptures, words and even songs to counterattack Satan’s lies. Ah, but so we may recall them, we do need to diligently seek His word, feast in worship of Him.  A children’s song comes to mind, be careful little ears what you hear and be careful little eyes what you see.

HUNGER

We hunger for love, contentment, and peace.  Yet, all too often we seek it where it cannot be found.  We chase after love, careers, and a name for ourselves; however, we search for it in a dry and barren land.  Jesus said: “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).  Also, He said: “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6).

Maketh Me to Lie Down

Many times, in my life, God has placed me in situations where I am forced to lie down and rest.  Sometimes, I would be so busy with my own world and He would force me to slow down for a while to just rest in the green meadows of His word.

It was 2010, busy about my work and life, God had called me to write “A Broken and Contrite Heart.”  I really didn’t have the time to complete the task.  Suddenly, one day I went emergently to the hospital with a bowel obstruction.  Having had my colon removed years before and having had Breast Cancer, I was aware that this was very serious.  My small intestine was so damaged by the obstruction the physicians feared they might not recover.  Recover they did; but it took 2 months of my having to remain at the hospital and then home.  During the time in the hospital, I studied God’s word, prayed and listened to worship songs.  When I got home, I had my recliner moved over beside my computer, where I finished writing and editing the book.

God made me lie down in green pastures, where all I could do was grow in the word.  He removed all fear, though I faced a fearful situation; because, He was there present with me.  There was none who could condemn me; because, He had set me free.  Anyone who has read that book, A Broken and Contrite Heart, would see how a Gracious God had been faithful to this wandering sheep, even when she had failed Him.  He brought me back, mended the wounds and made me to lie down in green pastures.

CONCLUDING THOUGHTS

The Shepherd’s loving care can bring peace, hope, and quietness to our hearts.  We find the green pastures in His presence where He has prepared the fields to satisfy our hungering souls.  Jesus Christ paid the penalty for our sin, the pests and bullies must all flee in His presence.  There is no fear, for He is protecting us.  Therefore, we may lay down in the green pastures and rest where we grow in Him.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.

ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?

If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here

Or if you would like to tell me your story or thoughts  comment here

OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE

If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.

Or for inspirational photos or home decor click here.

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2018
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

CREDITS AND FOOTNOTES

[1] http://www.antipas.org/commentaries/articles/shepherd_psa23/shepherd_02.html

Photo by Xavier Teo on Unsplash

Of all the scriptures, apart from John 13, Psalm 23 is one of the most known and quoted. “The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).  But what does “I shall not want” mean?  In Hebrew it reads, “Yahweh, my Shepherd, not shall I want.” However, is there ever a time we do not want something?  I want this or that to eat.  Or, I want a new car. Perhaps a new job, new clothes, more money, or to have salmon for dinner (when what we have is steak).  Wanting seems to be a constant in our humanity.  So, what could these words mean: “I shall not want.”  Is it a command or a promise? Maybe, it is both a promise and a command; because, the Lord is my Shepherd.

THE PROMISE: “I SHALL NOT WANT”

For all who have accepted the gift of salvation so freely given to all who believe in Jesus Christ as Savior, Lord and King; He is our good shepherd.  Therefore, like a good shepherd, He provides for each of His sheep.  He ascertains that we have that which we need.  As such, many translational versions such as The Living Bible or the NIV translate this verse to mean: “I lack for nothing.”  This is true, and it is the promise we are given.  “your Father knoweth what things ye have need of” (Matthew 6:8) and “shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).  Therefore, I shall not be wanting in anything that I truly need.

That is a wonderful truth, one that we can count on every day. But, I think this verse; also, has a second connotation that we must ponder and consider.  I think it is also a command to my own heart.  One I must remind my heart and preach to my heart each day.  When I remember that God is Sovereign, His love for me unconditional, and His desire is for my best; then, I shall not want anything apart from what He is and has provided for me.  Because I trust Him, I shall not want of counterfeit joys.  For He is providing my every need.  Furthermore, He knows what trials, heartbreaks, and tears I must face to come to the end of me, that I might know Him and the fullness of His power in me.

THE COMMAND: “I SHALL NOT WANT”

Oh, foolish heart of mine, why do you want so much of vain glory or things that cannot satisfy?  Standing before you IS God with open arms; wanting to fill every crevice of your heart with His love, His joy and His peace.  He is the bubbling fountain, the water of life that satisfies your thirsty soul. Ever present, He patiently waits to hear your voice seeking Him, calling out His name in the early hours or saying goodnight at the end of each day.

Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want for other things.  Yet, there are times I must remind my heart of that truth.  I sit down and recall all those times when He has supplied me, not with what I asked for; but always, what was better.  How often has He protected me from myself?  Knowing that what I thought I wanted would only cause me harm, He said, “no, I have something better for you”.

“I SHALL NOT WANT” WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

It means that in Christ Jesus, I have everything that I need and more.  He is my greatest treasure.  I know that He loves me and will give me His best; because, He is for me. Therefore, I shall not want because He is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider.

DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR?

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior: I urge you to go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. Because there is nothing more important than this, I urge you to seek Him today.

ARE YOU IN OF NEED PRAYER?

If you have a prayer request email me by clicking here

Or if you would like to tell me your story or thoughts  comment here

Just released:

For  previous posts:

What was the Greatest Oath Ever Made?

How to Not Allow False Doctrine to Seep In

In God’s Kingdom the Last Shall be First, Why?

How to Serve God with a Humble and Certain Heart

Do You Know and Trust the Good Shepherd?

Or for poetry

The Shepherd’s Lullabye of Love

Do You Want to Know the Secret to Abiding Steadfast Joy?

ABIDING, STEADFAST JOY

A labor of love, this book provides you with 3 foundations of truth from the scripture which once known will provide you with abiding, steadfast joy. Undaunted by the storms of life; your joy will overflow.

WHEN INJUSTICE AND VIOLENCE REIGN:
Through a study of Nahum, Habukkuk, and Zephaniah; I brought their message into our modern times. Answering the questions of “Why, God?”

Providing a foundation of faith and hope; even, as we see so much evil in the world and in our nation. With so much sorrow and despair, this book I wrote to guide you into discovering God’s Perfect Plan of love; amid this chaotic world filled with life’s storms.

You may click on the picture for more information on either of these books.

ANOTHER Book Available

God called upon a layman to “Build That Wall” around Jerusalem in 444 B.C. Nehemiah had no former political position, nor was he among the spiritually elite. He held a comfortable prestigious position in the royal palace of the Persian King Artaxerxes. Yet, God called him out, to leave his comfort behind and to go to build the wall for his people. He met with great opposition, political corruption, and threats; yet, he stands out as a great leader.  This is an in-depth study of Nehemiah, followed by an apologetic argument discussing “the Evil within Our own nation”, how we let it in and what we must do now as Christians.

You can find this and all my books on Amazon.com, search Effie Darlene Barba or click this link to be taken there

OTHER RESOURCES AVAILABLE

If you want to know more about other books I have written: You can read more about each one at: Book Resources.

Or for inspirational photos or home decor click here.

©Effie Darlene Barba, 2018
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

CREDITS AND FOOTNOTES

Photo by Eye for Ebony on Unsplash