do you have The confidence that you are never alone…

'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. ' Psalms 23:4

a few definitions that can be used related to this passage on the dark:

old english - absence of light; figurative use for "sinfulness, wickedness"

symbolism - mystery, sadness, and fear

Christianity - outer darkness is thought to be hell; however, many associate the outer darkness more generally as a place of separation from God

#1 and #3 are tied together. if you sin, you distance yourself from God. not that He leaves you; it’s actually the other way around - you step away from His Presence to do what is contrary to who He is and what He teaches us in The Word.

#2 is a place that many of us have been in and gone through. life is full of these moments. sometimes it’s the cause of #s 1 & 3. we end up making stupid or terrible decisions when we feel this way and believe we have no one to turn to for help.

it’s only when we know that we are not alone during these times that you can find the desire to move forward, be optimistic, believe in promises made, to then trust that you are safe and sound.

this is the truth that we can hold onto - Jesus does/will protect us and bring comfort when needed. He is always with us, we just need to call onto His name. sometimes the valley is where we need to be; while at other times it may be a short or sometimes long stint. just let Him lead.

dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your Hands of protection and covering over my family and i. we do find safety in and through you Lord Jesus. though i struggle at times - physically, mentally, & emotionally, i don’t want to give up and humbly ask for your help an support in my and my family’s lives. in Jesus’ name i pray, amen!