These last few months, the Lord has been teaching me a lot about dependance on Christ. I knew that’s what I needed to meditate on for 2026 (even though I massively failed to do so the first few days).
I wanted a word that means “depend” without sounding like adult diapers. After rejecting the flattery and misdirection of chatGPT, I listened to The Holy Spirit who guided me to ask deeper questions.
Of course I need to depend on Jesus for everything, but what does my current context look like? The answer: I am managing more roles, passions, responsibilities, and people in need of the gospel than ever. How do I do that in a way that is life-giving to God, the people in my sphere of influence, and myself?
And THAT’s when the Lord brought me to this Scripture:
“The God of Israel spoke; the Rock of Israel said to me, “The one who rules the people with justice, who rules in the fear of God, is like the morning light when the sun rises on a cloudless morning, the glisten of rain on sprouting grass.”” 2 Samuel 23:3-4 CSB
These words, originally sung by King David on his deathbed, gave me the word-picture I needed for the season I am in.
Let’s unpack some of the words that stick out to me:
1. The one who Rules: the Hebrew here is Masal (which I have unpacked in this post). It means to manage or govern—Oddly specific to my prayer (not odd, just God).
2. Fear of the Lord: utter dependance on God, high view of God’s expectations (and therefore low view of man’s opinion).
3. Is like the glisten of rain on sprouting grass: I cannot think of a more refreshing visual. That is absolutely my prayer when it comes to motherhood, ministry, marriage, the classes I teach, and my public speaking opportunities.
Another Hebrew word I love here is “dešé” which means “green grass” or “herbs”. This is the same word used for Psalm 23’s “green pastures”. It is a powerful visual for me to envision those under my care as grass. When I depend on the Lord, my influence will be as a fresh rain for every blade God has given me in this field I tend.
I have full confidence God will use this field I tend to refresh me as well in return.
I spent some time meditating and painting (my attempt at mid-century style art). Now I have this visual reminder to daily “rule” my home in fear of the Lord.
Have you set any renewed intentions for the year?