Green Pastures and Still Waters
by Erin Sanchez
“He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.” – Psalm 23:2
I have two kids, and when they were young, making them take a nap was like starting a World War. Tears, fits, and more would ensue when all I simply wanted was for them to rest. As an adult, I would love it if someone made me take a nap! The idea of lying down in green pastures and taking a walk beside still waters sounds incredibly peaceful. In Psalm 23:2, David paints a picture of contentment rooted in God’s gentle guidance and provision. It’s an invitation to pause, let go of restlessness, and trust that God knows exactly what we need.
This scene in Psalm 23 can feel far removed from our daily lives. We’re often on the go, juggling responsibilities, and wrestling with a sense of “not enough.” Our modern culture drives us toward productivity and achievement, reinforcing the idea that satisfaction is something we have to chase or earn. Yet, here in this Psalm, we’re reminded that God, as our Shepherd, is the one who leads us to rest and refreshment. It’s a radically different approach–one that invites us to find peace not in what we accomplish but in God’s presence and provision.
The Gift of Rest in Green Pastures
When David speaks of green pastures, he’s describing more than a peaceful meadow; he’s talking about a place of nourishment, safety, and rest for the sheep and shepard. In the barren landscapes of Israel, a green pasture was a rare and precious find, offering not only food but security and a break from the journey. Sheep, by nature, are vulnerable animals that rely entirely on their shepherd to lead them to these life-giving places.
For us, this image serves as a reminder that God desires to bring us to places of true rest where our souls can be renewed. Yet, sometimes, rest is the very thing we resist. I get used to running on empty, believing that if I slow down, I’ll miss out or fall behind. Anyone else? But in reality, our constant drive can leave us more drained and unsatisfied. God, our shepherd, knows this. His invitation to lie down in green pastures isn’t just about taking a physical break; it’s about embracing the soul-level rest that only He can provide.
Trusting God to Lead Us to Still Waters
Alongside green pastures, David mentions still waters–a calm, safe place to drink, and be refreshed. Sheep are known to be fearful of rushing waters; they won’t drink from them. A good shepherd, knowing this, guides them to still, quiet waters where they can safely quench their thirst.
In the same way, God knows the state of our hearts. He knows what will genuinely refresh us and what will ultimately leave us restless.
The world offers a lot of options for refreshment, from temporary distractions to endless promises of happiness and fulfillment. But often, these things don’t bring the peace we crave. God, in His wisdom, leads us toward what truly satisfies. When we trust Him, we find the calm and contentment that no worldly pursuit can replicate.
–Erin Sanchez-
Learning to Let Go of Control
One of the biggest challenges to contentment is our desire for control. We want to steer our own course, choose our own “green pastures” and our own “still waters,” often in ways that seem best to us. But true peace and contentment come when we let go of the need to be in control and allow God to guide us.
This might mean surrendering our plans, trusting God in situations that don’t make sense, or accepting rest when we’d rather be doing something productive. Letting go isn’t easy, especially when we’re used to relying on our own strength. But when we allow God to lead, we find that His provision is not only enough–it’s perfectly suited to meet our needs.
Embracing Contentment in God’s Care
Psalm 23 encourages us to look to God as our ultimate provider of peace and refreshment. Contentment in God’s provision is about trusting that He knows our needs, even the ones we can’t see, and allowing Him to lead us to places of true rest. It’s a journey of releasing control and letting God be our shepherd, trusting that He is always leading us to what’s best, even if it’s different from what we expect.
So next time you find yourself restless or weary, consider this simple truth: God, in His goodness, is ready to guide you to green pastures and still waters. His provision is there, and He is more than enough.
Reflection Questions:
- What areas of my life am I holding onto instead of allowing God to lead?
- How might I embrace rest as a gift from God, rather than something to avoid?
- In what ways can I practice contentment by trusting in God’s provision today?
Erin Sanchez is a woman after God who through her pastoral heart and prophetic voice creates spaces where people can feel at home within the presence of the Lord. Erin builds these spaces through her love of writing, joy of hosting people in her home, and stirring faith in prayer. She and her husband have two children and live in Kirkland, WA.
