God And The Valley Of Darkness

Psalm 23:4 (NLT) —

‘Even 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.’

The words 'fear not' is mentioned 365 times in the Bible, which implies that God has provided us with one ‘fear not’ verse to cling on to every day of the year! It is fascinating that the first spoken words recorded in the New Testament (Matthew 2) are when the Angel of the Lord says to Joseph 'Don't be afraid!' The message is simple, 'Do not be afraid!'

What are the things that we are worried about – is it our health? Cost of living? Studies? Work? or are we worried about the future? There are gazillions of reasons to be afraid of in this era, but the Psalmist in Psalms 23:4 says that God is with us when we walk through the valley of darkness and protects and comforts us through our toughest times.

Why are we afraid? Maybe our trauma, hurts and past experiences might lead us to a belief that God is out to punish us and just wants to criticise and penalise us. Yet it is just not true, and Jesus demonstrates that on the cross - he's already taken our punishment.

We do not have to be afraid of the future when we acknowledge God's compassion and generosity. Jesus paid the price for everything we have ever done wrong or will do wrong. He paid for it on the cross. So, if something bad happens, you do not have to think that God is punishing you; instead, write this on your heart: 'Even 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.' 

Prayer — Dear God, I come before You to lay my panic and anxiety at your feet. When I am crushed by my fears and worries, remind me of your compassion and your generosity. Fill me with your peace as I trust in you and you alone.