“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” Ps. 23:4
In this psalm, David celebrates the protection and guidance of God. Sheep guarded by a skilled shepherd are led to food and water, and are protected from harm.
This psalm reminds us that we have nothing to fear even though we may feel overwhelmed by it. The Lord is our shepherd, He knows what He’s doing, and He promises He will guide us through the valleys until we reach the sunny, open field on the other side. He is with us and won’t ever leave us. And if we happen to stray away in the valley, He promises to leave the other 99 just to find you, wherever you may be.
The staff and the rod are a part of the same tool, both working together in God’s gentle hands to remind us of His everlasting faithfulness and love. As children of God, we can take a deep breath knowing He is always with us, always protecting us, always guiding us, and always offering us a place of peace and rest. God gives us peace while we are in the midst of a wild storm. He brings comfort while we are afraid, tired, and worn out and forever faithful through every valley and over every mountain.
Prayer
Thank You Jesus that You are the Great Shepherd of the sheep and You are my Good Shepherd in Whom I trust. Keep me I pray from all dangers that stalk my path and may I find true comfort and protection, provision and peace in You, to my life’s end – in Jesus name I pray, AMEN.