Stress Test Devotional May 4
May 04, 2024
PSALM 23:4 | 4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
The Psalmist has been led by God into green pastures and enjoyed refreshing waters that restored his soul. But he has also walked with God through the valley of the shadow of death. It helps my faith to see the honesty with which scripture faces life’s tragedies and trials. There is no denial of suffering or sorrow. In the hymn, It Is Well, Horatio Spafford alludes to his own tragic loss of four daughters in a trans Atlantic ship disaster. “When sorrows like sea billows role.” Just prior to their deaths, he had gone through a business reverse, losing much of his wealth in the great Chicago fire of 1871.
Has your faith had to endure loss or trial?
Gracious God,
Help us not to fear evil when we walk in the valley of the shadow. Help us to sense You are with us, eager to fill our cups and anoint our heads.
Amen.
