Guided meditations have become increasingly popular and they are a great way to center ourselves, relieve stress, and find peace. But, how about one based on scripture with Christian imagery that helps us connect with God? Here you have it.
I invite you to find a quiet place and journey with me through the 23rd Psalm.
[The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in want]
Picture Jesus as your shepherd. How is he dressed? Look into his eyes. What expression do you see on his face? As your shepherd, he is your protector, provider, and guide.
[He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters]
See yourself lying down in clean, lush grass in an open green field. Feel the soft grass and look up at the clouds in the sky. You can rest because your shepherd is watchful and always near. Picture yourself following Jesus down a path near a gentle, crystal clear stream. Hear the sound of the stream softly trickling over smooth stones. Drink deeply from fresh water. Stop to enjoy the stillness and quiet.
[He restores my soul]
Take three deep breaths. Imagine that you are breathing in the breath and life of the Holy Spirit. Let your soul rest and be renewed. Whatever you might have lost, your shepherd now can restore.
[He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake]
Picture Jesus in front of you, leading you down a simple dirt path, directing you around sharp stones and pointing you in the right direction when you come to a fork in the path. As you follow his guidance, your life flourishes and others see how God has blessed you.
[Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and staff, they comfort me.]
Even if you pass through low places of death and darkness, see your shepherd with you, protecting you. His strong hands hold his rod and staff, weapons that fight off the most viscous wolves. Your shepherd has overcome death and darkness. His presence and power brings light and comfort in the midst of these temporary shadows. Let his light banish your fears.
[You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.]
See the lavish table being set before you while your enemies watch in envy. What is the meal that has beep prepared now placed on beautiful dishes? Smell the aroma of freshly baked bread, and lean back in the chair placed at the table especially for you. Enjoy the feast.
[You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.]
As you lean in and draw near to Jesus, see him gently reach out his hand and brush your forehead with oil. His anointing oil brings healing and relief from the irritations of life. The oil is a reminder that he has empowered you and chosen you as his own. As you feast at your shepherd’s table, see your cup overflowing with his goodness.
[Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.]
Your loving shepherd goes before you and leads you, but in his omnipresence he also protects you from behind and follows you with love and goodness even into your old age. See yourself living in the house of God, a place of life, abundance, a place to belong, a place to be loved, a place to live eternally, a place that will never be taken from you, but most importantly a place with God. Imagine what the house of God might look like. Jesus has gone before you and prepared a space for you. A large wooden door is before you. Open the door and find yourself at home in the house of God.
Dixie Thomas is a certified Life and Spiritual Coach, as well as an author, wife, mother, and rancher. Check out her website at www.TheCompassLifeCoach.com