Even Though!

Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me. PSALM 23:4 AMP

The one sure way I can fully understand what is at stake here is to read today's extract in context. This is a popular psalm that I am sure many of us know by heart, while so many can recite the whole chapter. That is not the problem. What is at stake here is a question of relationship, not memory. What today's extract underscores is a matter of the heart, not the head.

In the same chapter, you see the work of the Shepherd, who provides for the sheep. He leads the sheep to still waters, provides food and shelter and protection and guidance for the sheep. If that was all there was, I'm not sure the sheep will appreciate the value of the Shepherd. If it was all fine and I had all I needed when I needed it, would I truly know the value of the Shepherd?

As I read today's extract, I realise that 'bad' days will come. The days of darkness, when I do not know what to do or where to turn will come. God does not promise a ride free of trials; what he promises is His Presence as the good Shepherd. Note that the identity of the Shepherd is not in doubt here. In all the 6 verses, no matter WHAT the experience was, or WHERE the Shepherd led, the Who of the Shepherd was always there. Big lesson: wherever life may take you or bring your way, make sure you have the Person and Power of the Shepherd with you at all times.

Oh, those days will come. How would you switch allegiance to God and expect that the devil will not fight to take you back? Have you ever seen a man on assignment for God without stories to tell? Valley experiences, death threats and numerous trials are a part of the walk, and the one who is truly safe is the one who has the true Shepherd on his side. It is not a matter of IF but WHEN. I cannot escape it, unless I live a life of compromise.

As you go out today and this week, please make sure you are adequately protected. It is not in high walls or Ivy League education, but in the everlasting arms of the good Shepherd. My confidence in God's ability is a function of my knowledge of Him and connection to Him. I don't resist his rod and staff, because u know he knows the way, and I will do well to follow. He watches over my life so I will do well to listen when he speaks and move when he leads. That is the path to eternal protection and life. Am I connected? His time of favour is here.