Experiencing God's Power and PresenceSample

In Dark Valleys

For part of every year, a shepherd keeps his flocks in the lowlands where grazing is good. When the weather changes and lush grass grows in the mountains, the shepherd then leads his sheep through ravines and valleys to get to higher places. He knows the destination will be wonderful. 

But the journey is a little treacherous. Predators lie in wait in those shadowy valleys. The flock can sense the fear, and they depend completely on the vigilance of their shepherd. He has to be aware of the corners and crevices where wolves and lions lurk in anticipation of prey. Without him, the valley would become a place of death. With him, it’s just part of the journey to life.

David referred to this unfamiliar and dangerous territory as “the valley of the shadow of death” (v. 4). He is well acquainted with the dark times we go through when we can hardly make sense of what is going on around us. The promise implied in this image is that God will take us through whatever crisis we face, no matter how fearful or dangerous it is. We don’t have to be afraid because our shepherd is walking with us every step of the way. 

David’s confidence that he will “fear no evil” is a radical statement. He knows how dangerous this fallen world can be, but he refuses to give in to fear. He simply and boldly trusts God to know about every possible predator, natural disaster, and danger and guard against them. The rod of the shepherd’s power and the staff of his correction will comfort him even in the most extreme circumstances.

When life is uncertain, when dangers threaten, when you are enduring times of transition, refuse to give in to fear. Learn from David’s declaration. Fearless living is a legitimate choice for us because the shepherd is leading us through even the darkest of valleys. But we do have to choose it. When we walk through the dark valleys of life in step with our shepherd, he will honor his promise to see us through.