Psalm 23

You would think I’d be totally familiar with this chapter of the Bible. Reading it today I was struck by something though. It’s a picture of the Lord leading us–beside the still waters, on the paths of righteousness. The next verse is about walking through the “valley of the shadow of death.” It says that he’s not afraid because the Lord is there with him. Of course He is, He led him there.

The paths of righteousness lead through the valley of the shadow of death. It’s where we learn about His rod and His staff, His discipline and His guidance. And it is as we follow Him through, willingly submitting to His rod and His staff, that His goodness and lovingkindness follow us.