Yesterday I blogged a page from my journal regarding Luke 15. Today I ask myself this question:

How do I stay in the protection of the Shepherd? How do I keep myself from straying from the herd?

I constantly dwell in God’s presence.

It is those deep, dark places in my heart that pull me out, away from the Shepherd. I have those secret areas of my heart which give reason for Jesus to cover me with His forgiveness and lead me out of my wayward ways. I am so easily drawn away…

But the sheep who stays ever close to the Shepherd — close to the protection from temptation, will not be coaxed out of the flock by the enemy.

Consistent prayer, constant connection with Jesus shines light on those dark, empty places of my heart. Once light id shed, that which is mysterious and intriguing — enticing me toward sin — is seen for what it really is: empty, meaningless and not worth the trip outside of the Shepherd’s flock.

I must stay close to my Shepherd daily.

Hour by hour, I must draw near to Him.

Minute by minute I must soak in His glorious, safe, loving presence.

Psalm 23

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
²He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
³He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.

⁴Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

⁵You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
⁶Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.