Shadows

Read Ahead: Psalm 23:1-6

Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff--they comfort me. Psalm 23:4, HCSB

David's beautiful psalm about the Good Shepherd is one of the Bible's most well-known passages. In fact, it's probably read or recited as much outside of church as in it. Truly, this inspiring message of hope speaks in a way that all of us can understand.
David did what every good writer does: he wrote about what he knew. He knew lots about life's shadows, plus he was intimately acquainted with shepherding. So he masterfully joined the two together to pen some of the most comforting words of hope ever written.
David faced many dangers in his life--times when he didn't know if he'd live out the day; times when he was misunderstood, threatened, and attacked; times when the shame of his own sin sent him into the depths of despair. Yet through it all, he experienced the unwavering presence of God.
Just as he once led his sheep through the valleys, David's Shepherd guided him through the dark times in his life. Just as David's sheep used to recognize his voice through the darkness and follow the sound, God's voice brought comfort and direction to David when he didn't know where to go.
Life is full of shadows. There's evil out there--dangers and frightening valleys where the mountains block out the light. But Jesus, your Good Shepherd, will walk with you through the valleys and dispel the shadows of fear.
What good things have you been kept from enjoying because of fear?
Read Up: Isaiah 43:1-2, 1 Corinthians 15:51-58
This devotional is courtesy of TQ.