~3 min read
Psalm 23:4
“…the sheep are not afraid…”
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)
The valley is the place where sheep would go to for refuge to escape the bitter winter cold and scorching summer heat. Since the sun does not shine into the valley, therefore it is commonly known as the “shadow.” Although the valley provides a refuge for the sheep in those extreme weathers, it is also a place of danger. Wild animals would lurk around looking for prey, and sudden storms may flood the valley. That is what it means, “the shadow of death.”
But the sheep are not afraid. Why? Because of the shepherd’s presence, for thou art with me. The rod is a short thick stick used to fence off predators, and the staff is a long stick with a hook used to guide and rescue the sheep. Both the rod and staff speak of the shepherd as the protector, to defend the sheep from harm as well as to guide them on the right path. Thus, the sheep are comforted!
Dear children, the Christian life is not always without danger. It is like going into a valley filled with trials and dangers. We face all kinds of difficulties, challenges and afflictions. But like sheep, we are not afraid and we are comforted because we have the Lord Jesus Christ, our Great Shepherd, who will always protect us. It is also true that sometimes God allows us to go through troubles to let us be aware of His presence. It is during those times of troubles when we cry out to Him that we become so conscious of His ever-presence!
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