However, I’ve been lost before, which is not a pleasant feeling. If I am hiking in a vast, unknown (to me) area, I much prefer taking a guided hike. The reassurance that comes from knowing that the person you are with knows the area thoroughly promotes a deeper sense of peace

Like a guide, we have been given a shepherd. Psalm 23 lays out in detail how the Lord acts as our shepherd. He leads us beside still waters, and He knows every rock, crevice, crossing, and potential problem that we might encounter on the trail. And because He knows the path so intimately, He therefore also bears the role of “protector.”

Like a caring father and guide, He is constantly looking ahead at the path for possible things that we need to avoid and directing us elsewhere.

Our role is to ask Him where to step next. Each forward stride should be made with an open, teachable, searching heart. Asking the Good Shepherd, “Do I step here?”

His goal and dream for us is to take us to the best pastures! He doesn’t want us to stay on an uncomfortable rocky hillside. He wants to bring us to a place of peace with an abundance of provision. But you have to be a good sheep and ask Him where to step next.

Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart

And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.

In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,

And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].

Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP

How does this apply to my mental health and postpartum journey, Bethany? Glad you asked.

Peace and rest are something we all seek, and God knows exactly how to get you there. He wants to help you live in a place where your mind is clear, your suicidal thoughts have been washed away, and you feel like a mom who is refreshed and ready to serve your family each day.

Again, it requires you to be a good sheep and to ask Him where to step next. The best way to do this is by humbly praying and asking God for direction. James 1 says this:

If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him. 

All you have to do, mama, is ask. He wants to be your guide.

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Let’s pray together:

Dear Lord, thank you for offering to be my guide, protector and friend through this motherhood season. Help me to trust you along the path you have laid out for me. Help me to remember to ask for your wisdom as I make decisions. Lord, I want to be a caring mom to my children. Give me greater insight on how to raise the precious children entrusted to me.

Thank you for being my good shepherd. I will strive to be an obedient sheep. It’s in your name I pray–Amen.

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