Bigger Than UsSample

We all know what it feels like to walk through valleys—seasons where the light seems dim, and the path ahead feels uncertain. We don’t know if they’ll come home, how the bills will get paid, if he’ll make it through the night, or if the relationship will be repaired. The list can feel endless. David’s words remind us that faith isn’t about avoiding valleys; it’s about knowing who walks with us through them.

Notice the shift in this verse: earlier in Psalm 23, David spoke about God: “He leads me . . . He refreshes my soul” (Psalm 23:2-4). But here, in the valley, he speaks to God: “You are with me” (Psalm 23:4). That can be hard to remember and harder to feel. When life grows dark, relationship becomes more personal. But God isn’t distant; He’s beside us. The “rod and staff” (Psalm 23:4) symbolize both protection and guidance. The rod defends against danger; the staff draws the sheep close. God’s presence doesn’t always remove the hardship, but it reminds us we are never alone in it.

If you find yourself in a valley today, hold onto this truth: You’re not walking to the valley—you’re walking through it. And the Shepherd who led you there will lead you out again.

What “valley” are you walking through right now? How have you sensed God’s presence in difficult seasons? It’s okay if you feel like God isn’t there. But in those moments, fight to believe what’s true over what you are currently feeling.