The Protection of Our Shepherd
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. . . .Psalm 23:4
I led a funeral yesterday, and not surprising at all, the 23 Psalm was the first scripture reading the family requested. Every year it is ranked as one the most loved readings in the Bible. It offers comfort in so many difficult times of life.
Psalm 23 is attributed to King David. In this part of the psalm, David may be recalling not only his own shepherding days but also times when he was pursued by the armies of King Saul, who wanted to kill him. In both situations David would have traveled through wadis (small canyon-like places) that remained dark even in daylight. These could be dangerous places where animal or human predators would hide in wait, especially for lonely travelers. Yet sometimes a wadi provided the only route to fresh water and greener pastures.
Some translations of this text call this the “valley of the shadow of death” because there are so many possible dangers. A lost lamb has no defenses, but the shepherd carries a rod or stick to ward off predators and a long staff with a hooked end to grab a lamb that may have fallen into danger or to snatch a sheep out of harm’s way. The wadi is not a place to travel alone.
Though we may not live near dangerous wadis, the world itself can be a scary place of dark valleys and threats of many kinds. Even when we face death - the loss of a loved one or the reality of our own death, Jesus promises that through faith in Him, death is not the end. We are not abandoned or alone. Our Good Shepherd is always with us, and will carry us safely home.
In what situations have you been comforted by the Lord’s presence and promises?
Lord, at times we can feel as if we are lost in dangerous, dark valleys. Remind us of Your presence and protection. Amen.
Inspired by a Today Devotion