Q: Is Psalm 23:4 referring to when we die?  —Sally

A: Using the images of a shepherd caring for his sheep (Psalm 23:1-4), and a gracious host caring for his guests (Psalm 23:5-6), David testified of God’s constant care and persistent protection and provisions. David affirmed God’s providential presence in the midst of adversity. Without a doubt, Psalm 23 is the favorite Bible passage of many people.

In different Bible versions (eg. NIV, NKJV, NAS, ESV), Psalm 23:4 has been rendered as walking “through the valley of the shadow of death.” “The shadow of death” means literally “deepest darkness.” David is speaking of the uncertainties and dangers of bandits, wild animals, difficult terrain, and the inclement weather a traveler may encounter as he journeys through the wilderness or desert. He would have also had in mind the ultimate threat and danger to his life—the possibility of him losing his life.

A dark shadow often appears to be quite frightening, but it has no real power to harm us (Hebrews 2:14). So even in the worst-case scenario, David was confident of God’s presence and protection: “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). The darker the shadow, the closer the Lord!

Believers in Jesus are never in situations the Lord is not aware of, for He never leaves or forsakes His people (Hebrews 13:5).  —K.T. Sim

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