The 23rd Psalm is one of greatest pieces of literature ever penned. But more importantly, it is also God-inspired scripture that flowed from the heart of King David during a dark, painful time in his life.

“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” (Ps. 23:4, ESV).

King David was experiencing a time of “doom and gloom”; he felt as though death was near. Hardship, peril, chaos, and deep suffering were invading his life. In our fallen world, these things will invade our lives, too. At some point, you and I, too, will make that long, slow, painful walk through the “valley of the shadow of death.”

Never forget

You may be walking in the valley right now––perhaps a doctor gave you a bad report? Maybe your spouse has left you? Or your child has left the faith?

No matter what the circumstance, it is so important that you and I remember a simple truth about the valley of the shadow of death. In order for there to be a shadow, there also must be a light. And that light is Jesus, the great light of the world. Jesus walks in the valley with us. His light is also by our side. We are not alone.

Jesus is the light, but he is also the Great Shepherd, who walks with us and guides us. He will comfort us with his presence, even in the valley of the shadow of death.

Marinate on that.