All is well with my heart and soul until … What is that voice in my head? What is with the hateful, vengeful words that are trying to break into my mind, daggers of lies and blame aimed at my heart? Whether hauntings of our past or a battle in our present, there is a truth that rings louder and stronger if we listen carefully. Hear instead the end of the 23^rd Psalm. Verse 6 says, “Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

Ah, love, God’s unfailing love, sometimes translated kindness and mercy, emotes a strong sense of goodwill especially to those in need. Remember that Shepherd who has been with us throughout everything? He not only leads us, but His love and goodness follow us. The word ‘follow’ in this verse means to literally pursue aggressively or chase, like an enemy with hostile intent. Only in this instance, the Shepherd’s love and goodness are coming for and enveloping us sheep … all the days of our life! 

So let’s pause and soak in His love. Let it flood and overflow our heart, mind, and soul. Allow His love to wash away the pain and bask in His goodness. “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (1 John 3:1). Open your ears and heart to hear His whisper, “I love you, I love you, I love you!” Let it echo in your mind and replay it often, chasing the unpleasant away.

Enjoy being in His Presence here on earth and look forward to being “home in the house of GOD” in His heavenly kingdom. Know that He yearns for us to live with Him as His special guest in His holy, royal house. May we welcome and experience His love.