“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.” – Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
Consider this: If someone pushes you suddenly, the impact can be severe. But if you were expecting it, you are better prepared to resist. Likewise, preparing your heart for life’s challenges helps you stand firm when they come. We live in a fallen world. As Jesus said in John 16:33, no one is entirely immune to trials and difficulties. Some moments may test your faith as a Christian. What, then, is your anchor?
In the opening text (Psalm 23), the Psalmist begins by building his case from verse one, expressing the goodness of God in direction and provision. However, he stated a phenomenon many people might see as a negative confession. He writes, ‘Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil’ (Psalm 23:4). Why such confidence? Because God is with him! The presence of God in your life is the most essential factor in navigating through challenges.
Is it not fascinating that the disciples had Jesus in their boat when they experienced a life-threatening storm? (Mark 4:38). Most were professional fishermen, yet they were terrified and feared for their lives. You might assume the storm wouldn’t have affected them with Jesus on board, but it did. This reminds us that the presence of a storm doesn’t mean the absence of God.
The Psalmist refers to the ‘rod’ and ‘staff,’ which symbolize God’s protection and direction (Psalm 23:4). Your confidence in God’s presence should help you see that His protection and direction are always with you.
Jesus eventually calmed the storm, as recorded in Mark 4, but he rebuked the disciples for their unbelief. Why should they have feared death when the author of life was in their boat? Jesus’s presence in the boat should have been their confidence amid the storm. Can you see Jesus in your Boat despite the storm?
Dear Child of God, remember that Jesus has promised never to leave you, even in your darkest moments. The shipwreck that Paul faced on his way to Rome did not shake him because he already had a word from the Lord (Acts 27:23-24). It was recorded that Peter was sleeping in prison a day before his execution (Acts 12:6). What did he know?
Cheer up, beloved. God is with you!
Bible Reading Plan: Job 29-30; 2 Thessalonians 3