He guides me in paths of righteousness… (Psalm 23:3).

This verse is in the 1984 NIV.

In the more current NIV it says, “He guides me along the right paths…”

King James says, “He leadeth me in paths of righteousness…”

In the Michael Version, it reads, “He drags me, kicking and screaming, onto the path of righteousness, and smacks me with his staff when I wander away.”

Yes, I made that up, but you know what I mean.

Beloved, it takes more than guiding to keep us on the path of righteousness. It takes occasional and liberal use of the rod and the staff.

And our Shepherd loves us enough to use them.

Hallelujah for that.

Happy Thursday, Beloved