Psalm 23:1-4

For some reason, a lot of funeral homes use Psalm 23 in their little papers that have people’s obituaries in them. I do not see this as a celebration of death. I see this as a declaration and proclamation of a man who wanted God first in his life no matter what.

Several times in the Bible, we are compared to sheep. Sheep need each other AND their shepherd or they will wander off and die. They are defenseless to their enemies, so their shepherd protects them with his rod and staff. He can kill animals coming to steal sheep. A shepherd also guides his sheep to green grass and nice water. As God’s children, He does the same for us.

My NLT Bible has verse 4 written like this: “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 me and comfort me.” Notice the word when. Life isn’t easy and we have an enemy who enjoys making things difficult. Do NOT let him trap you in fear. The God of angel armies is beside us and taking care of us! Have NO fear!