Philippians 4 : 7
April 25, 2024
TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 25 APRIL
April 25, 2024
THE 25th OF APRIL
WE SHOULD FEAR NOTHING WHILE JESUS IS OUR SHEPHERD
Yes, though I walk through the [deep, sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I will fear or dread no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort me. Psalms 23:4
We walk through the valley of the shadow of death when we go through the dark, desperate seasons in life, or the dangerous places where there is real danger of death, deep as a valley, dark as a shadow and dangerous as death itself.
Even though we go through something as terrible as that, we should fear “no evil” because the Almighty God, the Creator of the Universe, is with us. We cannot find more wonderful encouragement than the fact that the Lord is in us and with us, wherever we are and whatever we should go through.
Shepherds use “the rod and staff” to protect and guide in tending their sheep. What we are tempted to consider as being “objects that cause pain,” are actually meant for our protection. They will cause pain, alright, but for those who try to hurt us and not for us. Even if we sometimes need to be disciplined, it is for our own sake, to remain on the right path and not to wander from the path to heaven!
SUGGESTED PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being with me through every hardship in life, and especially in the dangerous places and situations! Because You are with me, I have no reason to fear! Please help me to never forget that You are always with me. You protect and keep me from evil, and do not allow me to be tempted beyond what I am able to bear. I am so thankful that for every temptation, You make a way out. I thank You for Your loving help, so that I can walk with You. Please help me to do Your Will in everything, so that I do not need to be disciplined. In Jesus’ Name. Amen
Source: thetruthstandsforever
