Psalm 23:4 I Will Fear No Evil

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Psalm 23:4 (KJV)  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 

Life comes with its valley moments and the psalmist testified that because the LORD is his shepherd, He will take care of him in those testing times. He will trust the LORD by casting his care upon Him and not fear the evil tidings.

The “rod” was a clublike weapon to defend a flock against predators; the same word is used for a royal “scepter”. 

The “staff” could also serve as a weapon, but it was used to prod sheep in the right direction—hence a metaphor for divine guidance.[1]

The shepherd carries a staff or rod when he goes forth to feed his sheep. With this staff, he rules and guides the flock to their green pastures and defends them from their enemies. With it also He corrects them when disobedient, bringing them back from wandering for His glory. Amen.

[1] Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary – Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary of the Old Testament – Minor Prophets, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs.