A Psalm of David. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul; he leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. – Psalm 23:1-6

Psalm 23 reminds me who God is for me: my Father, my provider, my shepherd, the one who guides and protects me.

What particularly moves me is the moment when the language of the psalm changes. At first, David speaks of God: “He encamps me… He guides me… He restores my soul.” But as he walks through the “valley of the shadow of death,” he suddenly speaks to God: “You are with me.”

This is precisely where I find deep encouragement. Especially in dark and difficult times, God does not become further away – on the contrary: I am even more aware of His nearness.

In the valley of the shadow of death, David no longer just talks about God, but with God.

That gives me hope. I don't have to cross the valley alone. God walks with me. His rod and His staff comfort me. Even if I no longer understand the path or don't know what lies around the next bend, I can trust that He is there. He will not leave my side.

Psalm 23 therefore constantly reminds me: I am not alone – not in the green pastures nor in the valley of the shadow of death. My shepherd goes with me.