Shepherds often watch their flocks from a distance. But when night comes, they walk among the sheep. They know that darkness brings greater danger to the sheep, and so they walk beside them, guarding them closely from harm.
During both night and day, shepherds need to defend their sheep from predators. Using a rod, they attack the unwelcome animal to keep it from hurting the flocks. This protective rod is never used to hurt the sheep themselves. If a sheep does wander, the shepherd?s staff is used to gently nudge the animal back to safety.
When David wrote, ?Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me,? he surely envisioned the protection and care of a shepherd.
Like a shepherd, God always walks closely with his people through the dark hours of life. His rod and staff are never used to harm us. During life?s most difficult moments, God draws closer, giving us comfort while also protecting and disciplining us to keep us safe.
