Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
(Translation: ESV)
Explanation
It could be that the valley of the shadow of death was a real valley, but the Hebrew for this phrase is tsalmaveth (צַלְמָוֶת), "shadow of death." It’s a compound word meaning "deep darkness." Think of it as a lurking depth of unknown despair. In some ways, there is an expectation that we will travel through despair and dark moments. Yet, although we are travelling through darkness, God is with us.
Inspiration
Are you hoping God will take you out of difficulty? Often He walks with us through dark moments. How might you lean into faith as you battle through the darkness? In what way might prayer and reliance on God serve as light in the middle of your valley?
Application for Today
- This will be tough, but rather than avoiding your emotions, allow them to wash over you. As you do, invite the Holy Spirit to strengthen you and be mindful of how He begins to diminish the weight of despair. He might not take you out of the dark valley, but He will bring you through it.
Prayer
Father God,I thank you that you are with me. You walk with me through the valleys of darkness and can bring me through. Help me to be bold in the darkness knowing that your light and peace carry me.In Jesus' name, Amen.
