Psalm 23 Devotional

A Shepherd in the Valley

“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 (BSB)

A sheep speaks here about its shepherd. Because the LORD is David's shepherd, he lacks nothing (23:1). The shepherd gives him rest in green pastures and beside quiet waters, restores his soul, and guides him along right paths for the sake of his own name (23:2-3).

Then the psalm walks into the darkest valley, and something changes. David stops speaking about the shepherd and starts speaking to him. He will not fear evil, because the LORD is right there with him (23:4). The valley does not disappear, but neither does the shepherd. The scene then shifts to a host who spreads a table in front of enemies and fills the cup to overflowing (23:5). God's goodness and steadfast love keep pursuing him every day, and the LORD's house becomes his lasting home (23:6). Jesus called himself the good shepherd, who gives up his life for the sheep (John 10:11). The valley may still lie ahead of you, but you will not walk it alone.

To think about: What valley are you walking through right now, and how does it help to know the shepherd is walking it with you?