Jesus Is All We Need: 10 Devotions to Experience the Rescuing Love of GodSample

God is With Us

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

Did you know that the actual "valley of the shadow of death" is located on the western edge of modern-day Israel, quite close to the confluence of the river...

Okay, wait, I can't finish that sentence. I mean, I could, but I was making it up, so there isn't much of a reason to finish it!

It's very possible that the exact locations mentioned in Psalm 23 are real. The green pastures. The still waters. Even the valley of the shadow of death. After all, King David was a shepherd before he was a king. He must have used his life experiences when he wrote his songs (psalms) to God.

The imagery in Psalm 23 teaches us that since Jesus is our good Shepherd, and we are His flock, we are His priority.

That means when we enter the darkness of the valley of the shadow of death, Jesus is already going before us. He has both His rod (for attacking foes) and His staff (for rescuing) at the ready to ensure our safe passage.

That darkness can take so many shapes in our fallen world. Your company announces a round of layoffs. Your doctor calls with a scary diagnosis. You suffer from depression. In all of that - and in every possible darkness - we fear no evil, because our Shepherd is leading us.

I have to remind myself that when the Bible talks about the "valley of the shadow of death," it isn't just referencing ancient words of wisdom from King David's world... it's a promise for today! Jesus is always with us. Jesus will not forsake us, no matter how dark the valley gets. In fact, He will guide us through it, fighting battles on our behalf that we can't win without Him!

And the best news for us sheep is that our Shepherd has already defeated the ultimate predator: death. Scripture tells us that when Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected, He defeated death eternally. So we can live fearlessly, knowing that our Savior has already won.

Takeaway: Jesus will protect you at all costs.

Prayer: Jesus, I want You to know how much I love You and appreciate You for keeping me safe. Thank You for going ahead of me and fighting the evil that lurks in the darkness.