Walking Through

How many times do we find ourselves in situations that seem

hopeless? Situations that look as though they are never going to get

any better. When those times happen to come into our lives it can be

easy to think, “Am I going to get through this?” or “When is this

going to end? Where is the light at the end of the tunnel?”

Psalms 23:4 tells us, “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 comfort me.”

Many of us are familiar with this passage, but let’s break it down

a little further. The word through means, “into one side, end or

point, and out the other.” The word valley means, “level or low land

between mountains, hills or highlands.” The word staff means, “a

shaft or pole that forms a support or handle.”

So, based on a few key words we can find great comfort and

assurance that God is not going to allow us to stay in a hard situation

forever. While we may be going through a difficult time, we are to

find comfort in even the words, through and staff. We must believe that

based on these words we are going to come out of our situation and

God is going to be the support and comfort we need, even in what

seems to be the lowest point. Also, the words fear not need to bring

comfort to us. Although it’s simple, we do not need to fear because

He, above all, is with us and making a way out.

Isaiah 41:10 Reminds us, “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not

anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I

will help you, surely I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

The word surely means, “certainly.” Certainly means, “without a

doubt.” The last three things to learn from this are that we have His

rod and His staff, and they comfort us. The word comfort means, “a

state of mental or physical ease. Relief from sorrow or distress.”

Now that these words are broken down, we can be assured we

are going to come out of our mess with God’s help, protection and

comfort. We know that we are going to walk through difficulties, but

we can walk through them in peace and comfort because He is with

us, holding on to us and comforting us. So, know that there is light at

the end of the tunnel. The light always has been Him and always will

be!

What About You?

1. In what ways have you seen God’s provision and protection

in your life?

2. How can you face difficulties knowing that God holds you

tenderly and securely?

From God's Garden Tools by Gina Burns