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

It was a nasty Sunday afternoon a few years ago when my younger daughter and I were talking about her Sunday school lesson.

It had been on the 23rd Psalm.

When we walked into the kitchen, it was pitch black because of a thunderstorm outside. Suddenly, there was a close flash of lightning and an immediate, loud boom.

We both jumped and my little girl turned to me and sweetly said, "Daddy, I know even when we're walking through the valley of the shadow of death, we don't fear any evil. But can we turn on the light, please?"

I like that. She had, and still has, a very practical outlook when it comes to her faith.

She believes in the Lord Jesus as her Savior; she trusts in Him for protection and salvation. She knows that Jesus' love comes to her in a multitude of ways.

Although she may not have completely understand the miracles and mysteries of the faith, which God gives through Word and Sacrament, she trusted they come from a loving Lord. But she also knows the Lord has shown His kindness and care through electric lights and even a doctor's prescription.

With a complete faith in God's goodness she can say, "I will fear no evil, for You are with me, Your rod and Your staff they comfort me."

It is a confidence I pray all of us have today and always.


From a devotion originally written for "By the Way"



THE PRAYER: Father of light and Shepherd of our lives, thank You for comfort and strength along life's difficult path. Your Son took our sins and our fears to the cross; remind us to leave them there. In Jesus' Name. Amen.


This Daily Devotion was originally published February 23, 2008.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: 2 Samuel 19-20    John 5:25-47

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