The Eternal is my Shepherd, He cares for me always. He provides me rest in rich, green fields beside streams of refreshing water. He soothes my fears; He makes me whole again.
(Psalm 23:1-2 The Voice Translation)

Saying the Eternal in this Psalm makes us stop and think because we commonly say, “the Lord.” We read in the Bible, say and pray “Lord” so often that reading “the Eternal” erects a mental stop sign. What’s going on here? Why does this version use Eternal instead of Lord? When we explore the word eternal, what does it actually mean?

Eternal signifies having aninfinite duration, continuing without intermission, or existing at all times. Synonyms are everlasting, perpetual, timeless, and ageless. Others are immortal, imperishable, and undying. Any one of those words comes against all we know on earth. I look at gigantic mountains and know they were formed at some point. I live not too far from the Gulf of Mexico, which looks unending, but I know land comes into view when one goes far enough. Nothing I can ever imagine compares with eternity.

I stopped here and asked myself what is the difference between the uses of Lord and Eternal in these two versions? In reality, none exists because the Lord is eternal; he had no beginning and has no ending. The stop sign when reading this verse made me pause and consider more about our Eternal God: how mighty, majestic and strong he is. Because the Lord is the Eternal, nothing surprises him. Using Eternal as God’s name makes me worship at his awesomeness before I can read the rest of the Psalm.

I wondered how the Bible speaks about God and eternity, and two verses, among others spoke loudly: Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting, you are God. (Psalm 90:2)

For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity. (Isaiah 57:15)

The Eternal, the Creator of the universe stoops down and cares for his children as a shepherd would care for his stupid sheep. They do not know danger — falling off cliffs, wandering into rushing water that carries them away, and not knowing how to escape predators. Like a dumb sheep, sometimes I don’t recognize the danger of temptations that take me further from God. I continually need my Eternal Shepherd to guide me

My Lord gives me rest, not in the form of a nap, but rest of mind, peace. When circumstances of financial problems, illness, or a difficult decision cause me worry and sleepless nights, I can turn to my Shepherd. Years ago, my husband and I needed to make a crucial decision about our future. Would he continue in his well-paying but unsatisfying job or change to another? Could the type of work he was considering bring in enough to meet our needs? What kinds of unexpected problems might meet us there? Changing jobs meant selling our home when interest rates were sky high. Could we find a buyer? We both had mixed feelings because each side had strong positives and negatives. Selling our home took much longer than expected, and we couldn’t afford to move until we sold it. The time dragged on and on. Sometimes I thought I don’t care what decision we make, but let’s just get off this fence!

During this time of outward turmoil, I drew closer to my loving heavenly Father, my Eternal Provider. I talked with him and listened carefully to what he told me. Finding an intimate time not often experienced, a blessing of heart and mental peace that often bypassed me came as he soothed my fears. I drank deeply from those still, calming waters, as my Shepherd assured me of guidance where I could see none. The Eternal whispered to put the matter into his sure and steady hand and allow him to work it out. I learned to obey my Lord and be patient, trusting him all the while to bring forth my future, making me content.

I can be content in any and every situation through the Anointed One Who is my power and my strength. (Philippians 4:13 The Voice)

People with their minds set on you, you keep completely whole, Steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don’t quit. Depend on God and keep at it because in the Lord God you have a sure thing.
(Isaiah 26:3-4 The Message Bible)

I admit that trusting God in important matters takes courage and stick-to-it-ness. Doubts do come, but over time they come less often. Find Bible verses such as these and read them daily. More than once a day, if needed. Spend time alone with your Eternal, letting him calm you. Praise God for being a faithful Provider. Praise Him for all the many blessings he has already given you; this helps build faith. Stay the course and you will come through the difficult time.