Read 
Psalm 23:4 (NIV) 
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. 

 Reflect
Everyone will eventually experience a dark valley in their life. For Christians it is a time they sense their need for Jesus, the good shepherd. This psalm speaks of the shepherd who leads us to comfortable, peaceful places. He takes us to places to restore our souls and to pour over us his love and blessing. When we face disappointment or devastating issues Jesus comes as our protector and comforter, as the great good shepherd. 

When the doctor told my mother, she had two weeks left to live she did not cry or fall into depression. She was sure of who her good shepherd was and stood confident in her faith that had already carried her through many trials and concerns. She told me, “I’m not going to cry because I am going home to heaven.” A lifetime of Christian upbringing, reading the Word, hearing messages of truth, had given her an unshakable foundation. All of the foundation was built on the Word of God.  

When we enter the darkest valleys of illness, loss, uncertainty like covid-19 and other struggles we can find strength and assurance in God’s word. Psalms like the 23rd psalm can bring much comfort and hope. We have a blessed assurance that God is with us and cares for us. THERE IS NO NEED FOR FEAR. 

Pray   

Father keep my heart and mind fixed on you. Allow your word to comfort my heart and bring peace to life in a chaotic world. Thank you for the assurance of your word. Amen.