I Am Because You Are October 1, 2025 Devotional

PSALM 23:4a | ^4a 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.

Psalm 23 indicates a third way God is a good shepherd. In addition to provision and direction, there is protection. “Yeah though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.” Anyone who has undergone periods of physical vulnerability or emotional darkness knows the value of being accompanied and supported. The presence of someone who loves you and walks with you sustains hope in the midst of suffering or sorrow or loss.

As junior shepherds we have the opportunity to accompany others in these periods. The arc of Jesus’ life, which passed through rejection, suffering and death, and then on to the Resurrection and exaltation will be our pattern too. He promises to be with us in all our trials, sustaining that great hope.

Have you walked with anyone through death’s dark valley?

Gracious God,

Grant me the vision to see others’ struggles, the courage to embrace them, the empathy to feel their pain, and the faith to sustain their hope. Amen.