Walk Me Home
This is not our home, but until the day we are in God’s presence forever, we can rest in confidence that His goodness and love is following us.
I’ve heard it said, “You can’t outrun God.” There was a time in my life when I certainly tried. Not only did I try to outrun God, I tried to run from myself. I was going through a very confusing season. It wasn’t a national crisis, but an identity crisis. I didn’t know the truth of who God is, and I certainly did not know who God created me to be. I had no concept of what it meant to be a new creation in Christ. When all hope seemed lost and life would seemingly never look the same, it was too hard to put the past behind me and reach forward to what was next. It was too hard for me to see any goodness in the midst of my pain, let alone a hopeful future.
When I read David’s words, “Surely, goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life” (NASB), I am reminded that good and merciful are also listed among the many attributes of God. It is not only what He does, but it is who God is. He will not withhold what is best from His children or leave them to fend for themselves. Like most children, we have a very limited ability to determine what is best for ourselves. David writes with the assurance that whatever circumstances we find ourselves in, we can be assured that although not all things are good, God is good in all things.
The Spirit of God fills the life of every New Testament believer just as His Spirit would fill the Old Testament tabernacle or temple. He is always with us; His mercy is everlasting and His goodness is forever faithful.
When we experience our darkest days, nights, weeks, or months, we may not see God’s presence or His hand guiding us. Yet, once we get through those bleak seasons, we are able to look back and be in awe of the God who never left us alone. God’s light illuminates what the darkness tries to hide. Darkness always tries to hide the goodness of God.
His beauty and love chase after us every day of our lives. When we remember our Shepherd's goodness, it is easier for us to trust him with what’s in front of us. In the midst of a crisis, it can seem He has left us in the dust. But the story isn't over. While we wait for our good Shepherd and valiant warrior to bring us through this difficult race called life, we can simply reach out in faith, trust the Holy Spirit within, and grab the hand of God. There will be a day when we will be home with Jesus in His house forever. Let Him walk us there.
Reflecting on my own journey of faith, I realize how essential it is to acknowledge that life will have its challenging moments—periods when the future seems uncertain and pain clouds hope. Like the author, I once struggled deeply with understanding who I was in God’s eyes. In those times, remembering Psalm 23:6, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life," served as a beacon of hope. This verse reassures us that God’s goodness and mercy are not fleeting but are constant companions throughout our earthly walk. One practical way I’ve found to stay connected to this promise is by intentionally pausing to reflect on moments when God’s kindness has manifested in my life, especially during tough seasons. Writing these down or sharing them with a faith community helps reinforce trust in God’s character. It reminds me that while circumstances may not always be favorable, God’s nature remains steadfastly good. Furthermore, embracing the reality that God’s Spirit dwells within us brings comfort when we feel most alone. The Spirit’s presence is like a divine echo of the Old Testament tabernacle, filling our hearts and guiding us even when we cannot see the way forward. This presence empowers us to persevere, fuels our faith, and nurtures an intimate relationship with God. The struggle of 'not outrunning God' but rather embracing His plan resonates deeply. Attempting to flee from God’s presence often leads to confusion and despair, but turning toward His mercy and goodness offers peace that surpasses understanding. It reminds me that no matter how far I feel, God’s love is always pursuing me, ready to walk with me home. For anyone navigating an identity crisis or spiritual doubt, it’s worth remembering that God never withholds what is best from His children. Trusting God means relinquishing control and embracing the journey, knowing that the final destination is a place of eternal peace in His presence. Let His goodness and mercy chase after you every day, offering assurance and hope amid life’s complexities.
