It Is He Who Made Us

Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3

Oh how easy it is to forget! We didn't create ourselves, and we weren't created for ourselves.  

So often we run through life being our own shepherd. We make our own decisions and our own plans. We take care of ourselves. 

Our self-dependence often leaves us feeling burdened and overwhelmed. We feel the full weight of responsibility bearing down on us. Instead of turning our hearts toward God, we stress and agonize over "what's next" and "what if". Yet, God longs to lead us to green pastures and still waters. He desires to give us protection and rest. 

I feel this burden most, when I fail to submit my thoughts and plans to the Lord. Fear weighs heavy on my heart. I worry about the future; I worry about money; I worry about my family.

I forget that I am not the shepherd. I am simply a sheep in the flock of the Lord. I live in his pasture, and he will provide everything that I need.

Yet, this scripture isn't just about me. It's about my children. As the mother, I am often called upon to solve their problems, to heal their hurts, to bear their burdens, and sometimes the weight of their care falls heavy on my heart. Who am I to care for them? How can I possibly provide for them? I can't even take care of myself!

Then the Lord speaks to my heart through his Word. 

"Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he that made your children, and they are his."

This truth, that God is the giver of life, is freedom for a mother. I may change their diapers, feed them, and clothe them, but they belong to God. I did not create them, and they aren't here to give me pleasure (although they do!). They are the Lord's and His purpose, not mine, will be fulfilled in their lives. 

I pray that the Lord will teach me to be a good steward of the life He created, and I pray that he will open my eyes to the blessings that come from being content in his pasture. 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Psalm 23:1-3