Rod and Staff

Read Psalm 23

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

Karen Wingate lives in Arizona. Despite experiencing severe vision loss in childhood, Karen enjoyed hiking in the Southern Rockies with her family. Some parts of the trail were scary because Karen couldn't judge drop-off distances when climbing over rocky outcroppings or see the thorny bushes along the trail. So her uncle devised a plan to help her. He and Karen held opposite ends of his walking stick while he walked in front, giving verbal descriptions of what was coming. as they hiked, the dip and sway of the stick alerted Karen to the obstacles ahead.

Scripture promises us that God's rod and staff will give us comfort and courage. A shepherd would use a rod and staff to protect and guide the sheep through any dangers along the path. Likewise, God walks with us, protecting us from unseen dangers and guiding us through whatever we encounter.

Just as Karen was able to relax on her hikes because of her uncle's walking stick, we can confidently maneuver through life without fear, reassured that God leads the way and will never abandon us. As long as we hold on to God, we will find assurance of God's presence, power, and protection.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the comfort of your constant presence. Guide us through any obstacles we encounter, in Jesus' name. Amen.