"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." - Psalm 23:4, KJV

Challenges Loom Large:

In the journey of entrepreneurship, where challenges loom large and the path often seems shrouded in darkness, let us find solace and strength in the timeless words of Psalm 23 and The Lord’s Prayer. These sacred texts, rich in wisdom and comfort, serve as beacons of hope for those walking through the valleys of uncertainty and striving towards the realization of their dreams.

Is your mindset in the Valley of the Shadow of Death? With all of the "doom scrolling" it's easy for all of us to fall to our own fears. Some of us even fear that our businesses will not make it through the shadow of the election in 2024.

Here are 4 reasons why I am asking you to join me in praying Psalm 23 & The Lord's Prayer! 🙏🏽🤲🏽

1. Moments of Doubt and Fear Are Inevitable

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4, KJV). In the entrepreneurial journey, moments of doubt and fear are inevitable. Yet, this verse reminds us that we are not alone. The presence of the Divine Shepherd is a constant source of comfort and guidance, even in the most daunting challenges. The "valley of the shadow of death" can symbolize our deepest fears and greatest challenges. It is in these moments that we must remember the assurance of divine companionship and support, empowering us to face our fears with courage.

2. Blueprint for Trust and Reliance on Divine Provisions

Furthermore, The Lord’s Prayer offers a profound blueprint for trust and reliance on divine provision. "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11, KJV) is a humble petition that teaches us the importance of focusing on present needs and trusting in the provision for today, without being overwhelmed by the worries of tomorrow. This prayer encourages us to seek sustenance and guidance, day by day, acknowledging our dependence on a higher power for the resources and wisdom we need to navigate the entrepreneurial path.

3. Align Your Ambitions and Efforts with a Greater Purpose

Lastly, "Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10, KJV) reminds us to align our ambitions and efforts with a greater purpose. It is a call to surrender our plans, knowing that the ultimate outcome rests in hands far wiser than our own. This surrender is not a sign of weakness, but a declaration of faith, believing that our steps are guided towards a greater good, beyond our immediate understanding.

4. You Don't Have To Do This Alone

As entrepreneurs, let these passages inspire resilience, trust, and a deeper sense of purpose in your journey. May you find strength in the assurance that you are never alone, courage in the face of uncertainty, and peace in the unfolding of a plan greater than any you could devise on your own. In every challenge, may you see an opportunity for growth and a reminder of the steadfast love and provision that surrounds you.

When I Have Racing Thoughts or Can't Sleep I listen to This Meditation on Psalm 23

Beginners Guide to Praying Psalms 23 & The Lord's Prayer

Psalm 23 is a beautiful and poetic scripture filled with imagery and action. Here's a list of action verbs found in this Psalm, reflecting the dynamic relationship between the shepherd and the sheep, symbolizing God's care for His people:

Pick one or two verbs from this list in Psalms 23 to meditate and pray throughout the day

1. Is - "The Lord is my shepherd"

2. Shall not want - "I shall not want"

3. Maketh - "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures"

4. Leadeth - "He leadeth me beside the still waters"

5. Restoreth - "He restoreth my soul"

6. Leadeth (again) - "He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake"

7. Walk - "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death"

8. Will Fear - "I will fear no evil"

9. Art - "for Thou art with me"

10. Preparest - "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies"

11. Anointest - "Thou anointest my head with oil"

12. Runneth Over - "my cup runneth over"

13. Will Dwell - "I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever"

These verbs capture the essence of the Psalm, illustrating the guidance, provision, and protection provided by the shepherd, and the trust and confidence of the sheep.

The Lord's Prayer, found in the Christian New Testament, is a cornerstone of Christian liturgy and prayer practice. It is rich in action and intent, conveyed through the use of various verbs that guide the believer in their conversation with God. Here is a list of verbs from the Lord's Prayer, reflecting its call to worship, obedience, supplication, and forgiveness:

Pick one or two verbs from this list in The Lord's Prayer to meditate and pray throughout the day

1. Hallowed - expressing a desire for God's name to be revered and respected.

2. Come - a plea for God's Kingdom to manifest on Earth as it is in Heaven.

3. Be - in "Thy will be done," a submission to God's will and plan.

4. Give - asking for daily sustenance and provision.

5. Forgive - seeking God's forgiveness for our trespasses as we forgive others.

6. Lead - a request for guidance away from temptation.

7. Deliver - a plea for protection from evil.

Each verb encapsulates a petition that is both personal and communal, guiding believers in seeking a relationship with God that is based on reverence, trust, and a desire for spiritual and moral alignment.