A valley is a place where many people travel, but it is very dangerous. Many people want to walk in a valley because it is easy to walk through. People do not need to walk up to the high hills or the mountains to go to their destinations. A valley is normally in between mountains, so it is the lowest point on the landscape. However, there are many bandits and robbers that ambush the valleys because they know that it is where the people travel.
In this verse, the writer describes the valley as “the valley of the shadow of death.” The shepherds also take their sheep to the valley because that is where they normally find water and green pasture, but there are many predators there to want to kill and eat their sheep. Sheep are defenseless animals. The only thing they can do is to run away from their predators, but they are not fast, so they are easy prey. Their only safety is in the hand of their shepherds. The shepherds always bring their rod and staff to protect them from their predators.
The writer of this Psalm compared himself to the sheep. He was saying that no matter what danger he will face, his Shepherd, God, will always be there for him to protect and guide him to safety. Always remember that God is not against us, but He loves us and wants to care for us. This is the reason He wants us to walk in His ways and listen to Him because that is the only way that He can guide us to the right and safe way.
What can you learn about the shepherd and the sheep? Write down the things that you are afraid of, and ask God to help and protect you from those things that you are afraid of.
Thank the Lord for being our Shepherd. Ask the Lord Jesus to protect and guide you in all your ways.
Lord Jesus, thank you for being my good Shepherd. Thank you that you are always there to protect and guide me. Thank you that you are always with me no matter what I am going through. I trust in you Jesus, and please protect me today from the enemies and always lead me to your ways. In Jesus name I pray these things, Amen.