June 20

The Lord Our Companion

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. — Ps 23:4 BSB

These words beautifully describe the assurance of those facing death. How many people have found comfort in them during their final moments!

But this verse also applies to the agonies of the soul during life. Some of us, like Paul, face daily struggles, battling deep discouragement. John Bunyan, in Pilgrim’s Progress, placed the Valley of the Shadow of Death long before the river that leads to the celestial city. Some of us have walked through that dark valley more than once. We can testify that the Lord alone gave us strength to endure its fearful thoughts, mysterious terrors, and overwhelming gloom. The Lord sustained us, keeping us from true fear even when we felt crushed by sorrow. Though we were burdened, we lived on because we felt the presence of our Great Shepherd, confident that His rod would protect us from any real harm.

If today is overshadowed by grief or pain, let us glorify God by trusting Him fully.