Psalm 23:4

Hi Guys and Gals,

Some of our student leaders were challenged to write a devotional message and in the coming months you may see a few of these pop up now and then.  Todays is written by a student for you students so here it is:
Psalm 23: 4
“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, they comfort me.”

I was thinking about this verse the other day and pretty much can say that we all go through some tough times.  I chose this verse as it not only comforts you when you go through those hard times, but it shows us how to live each day as God wants us to.  Every day we have to choose between right and wrong. The valley of the shadow of death is our life here on Earth. We can be put in these difficult situations anywhere, whether it’s at your school, at work, or when you’re with your friends and family. But, since God is our shepherd, he will help you through these hard times. God will lead you through good times and will stand by your side through tough times. Another plus is that he will get rid of all your fears too! He never promised there wouldn’t be suffering along the way, but we know we don’t have to be afraid as long as we follow our shepherd aka God!

So I have this friend who knows that I go to church and have gone to, as she puts it, “Jesus camp” and a bunch of missions trips. She’s not against what I believe but she has gone out of her way to make a joke about it. Sometimes she’ll bring it up to other people saying that I’m “religious” and will laugh. When she does this I’m at first shocked and then hurt. Whenever she does this I remember God is with me and that he will help me when she makes fun of me. I have tried ignoring her… it does work for a time but she’ll find ways to bring it back up. What I’ve realized is that for some apparent reason God has put her into my life. I don’t like it but I’m sure there’s a purpose.  I may not see it now but I know it is there.  So for the time being I will do my best to follow God and hope that impacts her in positive ways. 

Even though we are in the “valley of the shadow of death” there is comfort in this verse! The shepherd uses his rod to guide, protect, and rescue his sheep from our enemies (we’re his sheep btw).   It is good to know God cares enough to protect us.  His rod is sometimes used to discipline us too. That’s right, discipline! When he disciplines you, know it’s for the best and was meant to be. Also, his staff will make us stay focused on him. He helps direct us and keep us on track. This will help us do what’s right.  Its like a parent who teaches their kids not to run in the street, or touch a stove when its hot.  There may be some temporary pain and/or punishment, but in the end the kid learns to make good desicions.  God disciplines often out of love.  When there is touble in my life, or I feel like God is disciplining me, I think of this song. It helps me realize that I should be praising God in the good and in the bad/tough/trials, and that God is true to his word, that he will comfort and guide me.  I hope this helps!

-Brooke Whalen