Psalms23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.KJV
IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW OF DEATH
'Tsalmaweth' is the Hebrew word translated "shadow of death". It is used poetically for thick darkness (Job 3:5), as descriptive of Sheol (Job 10:21; 12:22; 38:17); figuratively of deep distress (Job 12:22; 16:16; 24:17; 28:3; 34:2). The idea of "the valley of the shadow of death" was most probably derived from the deep narrow gorge with steep sides that has sharp object that can cause injury. Sometimes, shepherds lead their sheep through such places to find new and better pastures.David knew how distressing it was to lead his herds through such places. In fact, a wild animal maybe lurking somewhere waiting to attack its prey in such a place. So in context, "valley of shadow of death" was used figuratively to mean times and seasons of distress, pains and discomfort.
Knowing how terrible it was walking through those dangerous places, David made a statement of faith when he said, "I will fear no evil: for thou art with me". Any time you go through hard times, i want you to know that God is with you. You need to be conscious of God's abiding presence with you always regardless of the happenings. The bible didn't tell us life would be smooth all through. From old testament through into the New testament, it was repeatedly mentioned that we shall pass through hard times. Listen to the very words of Jesus: "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world". John 16:33.
Hallelujah!!! We have the primosory note of victory. The faith life is not devoid of challenges. You may not experience the ministry of the great Shepherd if you are not ready to walk through the valley of the shadow of death. Apostle Paul said, "For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever"(2 Cor4:17, NLT). Glory!!! Our troubles, distress and pains won't last forever. You need to be conscious of God's abiding presence through your trying times. You are too precious to be left alone. The Shepherd is right there during your trials. We are baked by troubles, it should not break us.
CONFESSION: The challenges of life will not break me. As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall not be struck down. I reign in life through Christ In Jesus name. I walk in the realities of Psalm 23 in Jesus name
Father, I will not miss your perfect will in marriage in Jesus name. Amen