The comfort of the Lord

The first times I read Psalm 23 it would scare me. I guess because the words that stood out were "the valley of death." What good could come from the valley of death? But as I have grown in my relationship in the Lord, I realize that this Psalm is to comfort. It really took root when I lost my son at 5 months into my pregnancy. We decided to bury Him. Our pastor read this Psalm at his graveside.



Though I walk through the valley of death your rod comforts me. I realized the meaning of His almighty comfort right then and there. God had been comforting me through this loss for months before it actually happened. Leading me to scripture and preparing me for this loss. So that when it did actually happen I was able to be stable for my family and loved ones.



He affirmed for me that my son was with His Son. Dancing, playing, singing. What comfort to know that he did not have to suffer in this world. That he never needed to know pain, anger, sadness but to only know love and joy.



Have you ever laid in newly cut grass? The feel and warmth and newness of it surrounding you, comforting you, the smell of it. Ahhh! Lay me down in green pastures.



How about the still of water. The shallow waters which are so calm and soothing.



These are God.



Breathe in His words today! Allow them to embrace you. See yourself next to those waters and lying in the pastures.

Psalm 23A psalm of David.

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

² He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

³ he restores my soul.

He guides me in paths of righteousness

for his name's sake.

⁴ Even though I walk

through the valley of the shadow of death, ^a]">[a]

I will fear no evil,

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

they comfort me.

⁵ You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

⁶ Surely goodness and love will follow me

all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD

forever.