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 staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 NIV
“Now I’ll just be gone a few minutes. Don't worry.”
“It's okay Daddy. We won't be alone.”
“Well of course not. You will have each other, won't you?”
“Jesus is always with us Daddy!”
“You're right son, exactly right!”
Wow, what we learn from our kids! I had dropped off my sons at the church for basketball practice. I was just going across the street to the funeral home, but I was concerned the boys might be afraid, but they had everything under control.
The good shepherd comforts his sheep. Dumb as sheep may be, sheep do learn to rely on the shepherd. His staff was a source of strength to them. With it he could defend them from the many wolves who could attack. He could recover them when they fell into a ravine. His staff represented the power the shepherd had that the sheep didn't.
The quickest way to better grass was through the valley of the shadow of death. It was called that because many went into it never to come out. The shepherd knew he must get his flock to the other side for their own good. The good shepherd could and would protect his sheep all the way through the valley and onto the next mountain top.
Jesus Christ is our Good Shepherd! Sometimes the shortest and best route to the next mountaintop is throughout the valley-- yes, even the valley of the shadow of death. (I don't know why! I just know it is.) Sometimes, even for the “strong” Christian, we experience difficulty in life that seems to push us to the edge. We take on pain that seems too great to bear. We go through periods of life where we almost wish our life would end.
The Good Shepherd promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us! He promises that He will comfort us with His mighty hand. His rod and staff created the universe, parted the Red Sea, brought forth rain, raised the dead, and will someday bring us home to Gloryland! His rod and staff hold within them the power of Almighty, Sovereign, Ever-present, Everlasting, the One and Only GOD!
Do you think He can handle whatever you are going through today?
Go on! Step into the valley! The Good Shepherd will be with you all the way!
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I may not see in front of me, But I can see for miles around when I look over my shoulder, and Lord, it`s clear. You`ve brought me here, So faithful every step of the way. What can I do but follow you, For You are the Way, the Truth, the Life, And You`ve promised never to leave me, My Savior, my friend, From beginning to end. 
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