David penned the words, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death . . .” (Ps. 23:1, 4 KJV). Face it, life leads us through places we’d rather not go. There’s nothing appealing about a valley much less one where the risk of death abides. 

Some think the valley David speaks of is figurative, yet it is a literal valley in Israel. It is a deep gorge where shepherds watch sheep graze. By mid-afternoon this valley grows dark like a shadow long before the sun goes down.  Predators roam this valley threatening the safety of the sheep which graze there. It truly is a valley of darkening shadows where the risk of death is real. Were it not for the presence of the shepherd, it would be a frightening journey for sheep. Yet because the Shepherd is nearby, his presence brings comfort to the sheep. 

David finds consolation in having the Lord as his shepherd when passing through similar places (Psalm 23:1). Even with the Lord as our shepherd, David contends we still face valleys of darkness, gloom, and the risk of death. However, with the Lord as our shepherd, we need not fear. David doesn’t say He leads us into such places, but through such places! He does not leave us or abandon us in this valley to face the threat of death alone. He accompanies us through this valley. There is a calm and sense of assurance—even protection—when the Shepherd is nearby.

What a glorious thought!  As the people of God, we are not led into the experience of death to be abandoned to our fears. Our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, not only passed through this valley Himself, He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us, giving us comfort as we too pass through this valley.  Have courage fellow traveler!  If you are facing a fearful valley today, you can pass through it if you continue to faithfully follow our Shepherd.  And when you emerge on the other side, what rejoicing there will be! No sadness. No tears. No pain. Only heaven!

Tim Whistine

To contact the author, send an email to mindset2succeed@yahoo.com. He would be delighted to hear from you. 

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