Close To The Shepherd

When I walk

through the darkest valley,

I will not be afraid,

for you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff

protect and comfort me.

Psalm 23:4

A culture that places a high value on success and self-fulfillment finds it difficult to speak of death. The Holy Scriptures, however, never attempt to hide this topic from us. At the same time, the Scriptures assure us that God is always with us. In this prayer, David voiced his belief that God was close to him, even in the “darkest valley.” He would not be afraid because he knew God was near. As this year of prayer comes to an end, we should reflect on the entire year, looking for ways God has been near to us in those dark valleys. And when our earthly days finally have run their course, another life—filled with wonder and excitement—will open up to us. The Lord Jesus will welcome us to our eternal home.

In prayer today, thank the Lord for being near to you in the dark valleys of this past year. Ask the Lord to be close by your side in the year ahead.

• Dear Lord, even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me . . .