Through The Valley

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.  

Psalm 23:4 

The path of life has many circumstances that are part of the whole experience. At times it is relatively smooth, the sun is shining and we can see the way forward. Other times the path is uphill and filled with obstructions. Still, other times the path before us is obscured in darkness with shadows, mists, and mystery. These are the times that are likely to disturb us most deeply. What lies before us does not look encouraging or inviting. We find it disturbing, unsettling, and fearful. Realistically we know this is just part of life, yet we would prefer not to have to go that way. David realized all these things about the path of life. He lived through some challenging experiences. He found himself from time to time in the valley of the shadow of death. How could he calm his fears? Christ is the answer. When he encountered Goliath Christ was with him. When Saul the king pursued him, Christ was with him. When evil men sought to do evil to him Christ was with him. He did not fear to walk through the valley of the shadow of death because Christ was his Shepherd. He would not leave him. Nor will Christ leave us. He is as much our Shepherd as He was David’s. He is ours and we are His forever. 

Our Gracious Guard and Guide, 
we rejoice that You defend us. 
We praise You that we can trust in You, 
in the hardest circumstance of life.  

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning