Psalm 23:3 “He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.“
In Psalm 23:2, it was seen that the Lord leads His sheep – particularly those that are close to Him to “green pastures,” and to “still waters.” These things refer to His loving provision for His sheep and the refreshment gained from them.
The green grass and waters refresh the body and help our mind to be at ease, knowing that He will take care of us. Today’s verse reveals that these things also help to restore our souls. It is a reference to our minds – thoughts, desires, motivations, etc.
The Lord does not expect us to serve or follow Him in our own strength. If we had to do so, we would quickly burn out and likely quit. The difference is that He does not drive us – He leads us, and along the way He provides us with some needed times of refreshment – and sufficient grace. Remember that after a busy day, Jesus told the disciples to “Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while” (Matthew 6:31).
Our Shepherd does this so that He may lead us “in the paths of righteousness.” He is not content just to lead us through this life. There is a goal He has in mind. It is more than just being useful. He plans to conform us to be like Himself along the way: “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son” (Romans 8:29).
The verse also reveals why He does this for us. It is so that His Name – His holy Name – may be honored by the way His sheep live. If there is a lack of willingness to please Him in what we do – chastisement will be coming. He wants us to be willing to honor Him with godly lives – that is the direction of His leading – not merely to fill a position.
If we tolerate sin, we cease to be able to hear Him. Confession restores the soul so that we can again hear His voice and follow.