Breathe With God: 5 Short Stress-Free Prayers for FamiliesSample

Are you feeling the weight of big family decisions, stressed about making the “right” choice, or afraid of missing God’s plan?

Psalm 23 is one of the most comforting and soul-settling passages in the Bible. It invites you into God's tender care as your Shepherd, someone who knows you personally, leads you faithfully, and provides for you fully. Today, let's begin with just the first verse:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need” (Psalm 23:1, NLT)

Take a deep breath and let those words sink in.

The Lord is your shepherd. Not just a shepherd for the whole world—though that's true—but yours. He knows your heart, your questions, and your fears. Shepherds don't lead from afar; they stay close, providing protection and care.

You have all that you need. I know how hard this can be to believe sometimes. Maybe you’re in a season of uncertainty or waiting, where it feels like God’s provision isn’t enough. Maybe you feel nervous about big decisions or changes affecting your family. God’s Word reminds us He always gives what is good. His care doesn’t mean you’ll never have wants or challenges—it means you’re never without His presence, peace, or guidance.

Dallas Willard said, “The Lord is my shepherd—that is relationship. I shall not want—that is provision.” Let that sink in. God’s shepherding care meets your needs—not just material needs, but your need for wisdom, guidance, and peace.

Notice that Psalm 23 doesn't say you must find the right path. It says the Lord your Shepherd leads you, guides you, and refreshes you, even making you lie down to rest in good places.

For someone like me—a recovering perfectionist—this truth is life-giving. God's guidance frees me from the pressure to make perfect choices.

What if the "right path" isn't about a perfect choice, but about walking closely with Him?

Take a moment to ask:

• Lord, where am I putting too much pressure on myself?
• How can I trust You with this decision instead of trying to control it?

When you feel the weight of choices, remember: God's leadership is steady, His paths are good, and you don't walk them alone.

Breathe deeply and intentionally as you pray either (or both) of the breath prayers below.

Inhale: The Lord is my shepherd
Exhale: I have all that I need

Inhale: The Lord my shepherd
Exhale: Leads me in right paths

Picture God gently guiding you—not to make you prove anything, but to invite you into His peace and provision. With each breath, release the stress of trying to control everything. Let your questions become conversations with God.

Because He is your Shepherd, you truly have all that you need.

Kid Connection: Try This

Look for things—outside, or in your home—that remind you of how shepherds take care of sheep (soft grass, water, safe places). Ask your child, “How do you think God takes care of us like a shepherd?” If helpful, look around your home for reminders of that too. Share one way you've seen God care for your family lately.

Discover how God brings peace that calms our hearts and relieves anxiety. That’s where we’re going next.