Last week, we spent some time in Psalm 23. This week, I’d like to pick up where we left off. Our last couple of programs focused on verse 4: “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.” Untold numbers of people have turned to Psalm 23 seeking comfort, and what a comforting Psalm it is! But why can we find comfort in this Psalm?
We’ve already noted the Lord’s presence is a key to our safety. But David also discusses the Shepherd’s tools. First, there is the rod. This was an instrument that shepherds primarily used as a weapon. These clubs were used to fight off predators and thieves. In other words, the Shepherd is a warrior ready to protect! But he also uses the staff to guide and correct His sheep. If we truly want the Lord’s comfort, we must trust His protection and follow His instruction and correction.