Shadows

You can have no fear when shadows cross your pathway.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me …” Psalm 23:4

This verse is often read as comfort in the presence of physical death. Yet whenever the shadow of loss of any kind crosses our pathway our natural inclination is to respond in fear.

Loss comes in many forms: 

the death of a dream; the loss of health; finances; a job; the loss of a friendship; a home; a marriage.

The threat of loss often casts its fearful shadow unexpectedly. Global and national situations can cast shadows of potential loss. A looming medical test; unsettled talk at work; the tense edge in a relationship can all throw shadows across our hearts.

This beautiful Psalm acknowledges that we do walk through valleys that cast the shadow of death along our way … and yet we do not need to fear those shadows. Even in the midst of them we are reminded, “I will fear no evil, for You are with me”.

We never need to fear a loss of hope when shadows come. Shadows are part of life as our days lengthen and change. Yet the shadows need not define us nor paralyze us with fear. They need not make us retreat nor cower. For our God walks with us through the valley where the shadows cast a distorted image.

We need not fear. 

 He comforts us as we go. He prepares a feast for us even in the midst of hostile territory. He anoints us with His joy and our cup can overflow with the knowledge of His goodness and mercies following us as we courageously walk on. Our good Shepherd leads us and we can trust Him fully, even in the shadows.

Thank you LORD GOD that You are my Good Shepherd and that You lead me today. If a shadow of loss threatens to darken my way today may I lean  hard on You, allowing Your comfort to fill me, Your joy to bubble up in me and Your peace to replace my fear. May I see the goodness and the mercy that are following me as I confidently follow You along the pathway of life. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

by Gail Rodgers