Psalm 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.

This verse about the character of His anointed takes on two aspect. One is carnal and the other spiritual.

As Lord He has the right to make us lie down. The imagery of green pastures is carnal in the sense of provision while encouraging a relaxed posture. It gives way to images of a picnic on a grassy knoll. It should be restful, pleasant and satisfying.

The imagery of still waters is one of the power of the Holy Spirit at work somewhere else outside of our placement on the pasture. We may see the movement of the Holy Spirit but it is not for us to follow it down stream to see where He will enact God’s will.

The flesh is curious to see and understand. The Spirit encourages us to relax and just allow the waters to flow without fear or anxiety over where He goes and what He does next. He enacts the will of God. We should not take on the attitude that we have accomplished anything.

The important message here is relationship over performance. Our Lord cares more about us than our service. While we do get anxious in service and performance, the Lord emphasizes relationship first.