Prone to Wander

Text: Psalm 23:3

“He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.”

Animals like to wander off.

If you have owned any animal outside of maybe a goldfish, you know they tend to wander.

The Psalmist described the sheep in the same way. Although they had green pastures and water, they would wander and need to be restored. 

We are not much different. 

Although God provides all we need, we tend to allow our hearts and minds to wander away into sin. The word “restore” means “to turn back” or “to return.”

In His mercy and longsuffering, God restores our wandering souls into fellowship with him. 

God often uses three primary means to restore us:

• His Word
• His Spirit
• His people.

Psalm 19:7 states, “The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul” (same Hebrew word). His Word points out where we are off the path and what we must do to be restored (2 Tim. 3:16-17).

God has also entrusted to those who are spiritual the ministry of using His Word to help restore His straying sheep (Gal. 6:1; James 5:19- 20).

Because we tend to wander, we need guidance, and this verse tells us that our Good Shepherd leads us in paths of righteousness. The same Word used to restore us guides us on the right path. 

The last phrase of this verse reveals the importance of being led on the right path.

 “for his name’s sake.“

His restoration and leading allow our lives to bring Him glory. 

Reflection Questions

1. Is your life bring glory to your Good Shepherd?
2. If not, where do you need to be restored?

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