assurance
“Even 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.”
Psalm 23:4 ESV
When we are going through a dark valley, when we are afraid, when we are cast down and helpless in every way, we can look to the Good Shepherd calling us to return and dwell eternally secure in his presence, and we can know the joy of coming home.
Of all people, David knew what it meant to be a shepherd (1 Sam 16:11). It was not a glamorous role, but one whose primary goal was to care for, nourish, guide and protect the sheep. Yet, there are times when the shepherd doesn’t lead his sheep to green pastures or quiet waters, rather he leads them through the valley.
Much like the Christian life which is not always perfect and peaceful. It’s not solely filled with mountain top experiences, but we’re never left to navigate them alone. Through all the twists and unexpected turns, the shepherd remains ever present. He is the only one who can calm and protect his sheep, causing one to resolutely say, “I will fear no evil.”
Even though I walk through the valley of anxiety.
Even though I walk through the valley of loneliness.
Even though I walk through the valley of insurmountable debt.
Even though I walk through the valley of heartbreak.
I will fear no evil– why?
For You are with me.
Whether stuck in a deep sadness, grieving the loss of a loved one, facing disappointment or rejection, the psalm says, “You are with me,” full stop. Even in our own wanderings, mishaps, stubbornness and fear, “You are with me.”
Your rod will guide me on the proper path. Your staff will comfort me with the knowledge of your presence.
Furthermore, we now know Jesus is the chief shepherd (1 Peter 5:4), the one who would meet our needs, lead us in the way and protect us from the evil one (Jn 10:5,10). The one who came to give us life in abundance. It may not always be a comfortable life. It may not be filled with riches and gold, but we will never lack. Christ brings us to full satisfaction, refreshing us with the Holy Spirit. He comes to us when we are cast down, setting us on our feet again. Jesus himself walked through the valley of the shadow of death, willingly laid his life down, and because of his sacrifice he brought us home once and for all.
What an amazing Shepherd whose heart is filled with sacrificial love. Christians can partake in the promise of Psalm 23 over and over again. When we are going through a dark valley, when we are afraid, when we are cast down and helpless in every way, we can look to the Good Shepherd calling us to return and dwell eternally secure in his presence, and we can know the joy of coming home.
In Him,
Makenzi
additional reading:
John 10
centering prayer:
LORD, you are my Shepherd, and you know my way. Help my heart to trust you even when I don’t understand. Lead me in the path of righteousness that I may know the glory and grace of Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
