Thursday, August 4, 2022

Listen to the Word
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. (Psalm 23:4)

The psalmist says he is fearless because he draws comfort from the rod and staff of God. Comfort is not necessarily the first word you would associate with a shepherd’s rod and staff. They are not tender and sweet things. A rod is a weapon the shepherd would use to bludgeon the head of a predator coming after the sheep. A staff is a tool the shepherd would use to grab a wayward sheep by the neck and jerk it back onto the right path. God’s rod and staff don’t make us comfortable, but they are comforting. In light of everything that comes after us, it is encouraging to know that God is our fierce protector. Given our tendency to wander away, it is reassuring to know that God is our firm guide.

Live the Word
Do you need God’s protection from anything right now? Do you need his guidance? Ask him to provide what you need.