Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff— they comfort me. - Psalms 23:4 NRSV
We all go through valleys; there are no exceptions. During those journeys, the days seem dark indeed. Satan in those times likes nothing better than for us to feel alone and despondent. He delights in turning our dark pilgrimage into a reason to doubt our faith. He does this because that is who he is -- the Prince of Despair.
But that doesn't have to be our journey, and it's not the truth because we serve the Prince of Peace. In him, we find hope. Our God doesn't leave us alone but walks beside us. He isn't just a passive companion either; that rod is used to smack down Satan. That same stick is used to guide us forward.
Some of us may be heading into a dark valley right now. Others may be in the midst of their journey. Yet others may just be beginning to see the light ahead. Know this, wherever you are in the journey, Christ is with you the whole way. He will not leave you or forsake you because that is who he is -- a God of love and compassion.
Precious Shepard, we give thanks for your promise. When we are journeying through our dark valleys, Satan tells us we’re alone and that you don’t care. We know that is not true. You’ve been with us in the valleys of the past, are now, and will be in the future. God help us to remember how much you love us. When you guide us with your staff, help us to be obedient. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Shalom,
Pastor Tim
Comentarios