There are no stars in the night sky. There is no moon. You can hardly see your own hand in the darkness. You estimate the town is about five more miles away. You are exhausted from all the walking. You are hungry. You are out of food. There is hardly any water left in your canteen. You can feel the enemy closing in. You have been told wild beasts roam this part of the forest. You need to get to town to warn them of the invasion. Every step feels like the last step you will ever take. Every breath feels like the last one you are going to take.
Have you ever felt like everything is going wrong at the same time? Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed by everything happening around you? It is no longer paranoia when everyone is out to get you, is it?
Psalm 23 is possibly one of the most familiar passages in the Bible. I remember it from the original Exorcist.
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (verse 4)
Think of the “darkest valleys” in your life now. How does knowing that God is with you change your perspective on your current struggles? With the Great Shepherd’s rod and staff to project you, how does that make you feel? How can you lean into God’s promise of companionship and support? Share your reflections with a friend or write a journal. May the assurance of God’s presence bring you peace and courage.
I invite you to say this prayer.
My Father, you are my shepherd. In your presence I find peace and protection. Even when I walk through the darkest valleys, I know I am not alone because you are with me. Your rod and your staff comfort me and guide me. You give me courage and strength. Help me to trust in your unfailing love and to find peace in your presence, no matter what challenges I face. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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