Psalms 23:4 - I Am Not Alone

"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." (ESV)

One of the most widely known verses. You can find it everywhere from Church to memes on the internet. However, just because everyone knows a verse, doesn't mean it is worthless. Just because everyone quotes it, doesn't mean it has no meaning.

As believers, we all will go through these valleys. While probably not a literal valley of death, we will go through trials which try to destroy us. We will suffer pain and sorrow. Yet even though we suffer, we are not alone. For God is with us and he will defend us.

I do not promise that your suffering will immediately go away when you call on God, nor do I promise a trial free life. In fact, the opposite is promised (2 Timothy 3:12). What I am promising is that you won't be alone in your suffering.

I love the depiction in the final section of this verse: "...your rod and your staff, they comfort me." It depicts God having shepherd tools. These tools were used to both guide and protect the herd. It shows us that God will guide our lives, he will lead the way, choosing the easiest path for his flock, and he will protect his flock when predators come to devour it.

No matter what you're going through, no matter what you've suffered. Know that God is never far. He is your comforter, he is your protector, and he is your guide. Trust in him and you will never need to be afraid. Even in the valley of the shadow of death, you can rejoice for your God will keep you safe.

Prayer

Father God, no matter what trial I am facing right now. No matter the struggles I have been through, I thank you for seeing me through them. I thank you that you keep me safe. Lord you are my comforter, you are my protector, I pray that I never lose sight of this and that I can understand that all trials have a purpose. Help me to rejoice in trials so that I can grow closer to you. Amen.