23: Treasures Within Psalm 23Sample

23

DAY 4: FAITH

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. Psalm 23:4

Faith over fear. A concept much easier said than done. Confessing my sins and accepting Christ as my Savior created a false sense of security that life would be all rainbows and roses. If that is the case, why would I consider a“valley of the shadow of death” or that I might be at risk of “fearing evil”? Salvation doesn’t mean the omission of evil and never guaranteed a life without adversity or crisis. This verse is my favorite within this chapter. It is the most comforting yet the most difficult to implement in my life. Valleys are inevitable, some more damaging or devastating than others. However, the encouragement and the promise are the same. “We will fear no evil, for He is with us, and His rod and staff comfort us.” Regardless of the bully in the schoolyard that we encounter, we have someone bigger who defends us and battles on our behalf. The terminal medical condition, a letter from the bank, or a wayward child doesn’t change the terms of this deal. Fearing evil or a potential outcome to life’s circumstances doesn’t negate God’s promise to be with us and to comfort us. Life may push and shove us around, but we can rest assured in the certainty of a good God who loves us. I wish I could commit to living a completely fearless life, one-hundred percent of the time.

We all slip into the valley of hopelessness, discouragement, or insecurity where the enemy likes to dangle fear and death as bait. Metaphorically, in my opinion, the rod and staff represent God’s word and Holy Spirit to comfort us. “In the valley of the shadow of death” insinuates an environment where we will need weapons to fight. Speaking scripture (sharper than any two-edged sword) while enlisting the help of the Holy Spirit empowers us to resist fear and find comfort. Our faith isn’t perfect, but the God who promises protection is perfect and flawless. We will walk through fearful circumstances, but He is bigger than all of it. He will provide the comfort we need and a path out of the valley.

CHALLENGE:

What is your greatest fear?

How will you utilize this scripture to solidify your faith in moments of fear?