April 5, 2004	Read Psalm 23
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me…
GOOD SHEPHERD PROTECTS THE FLOCK This verse is an expression of confidence and trust in God’s protection.  We find comfort in it because we hear that we are not alone.  God is always with us, even in the darkest of circumstances. I am most familiar with this psalm because it has been read at many funeral services.  I often wonder what people do without God, especially when grieving.  Losing a loved one is very difficult.  Without a relationship with Christ, how do people survive?  There are so many people who do not know the peace, comfort, and protection that comes from a personal relationship with Christ. Do you really trust that God will protect you?  I do, yet I tend to worry about the details anyway!  I have many fears that trouble me at times, especially the thought of losing a loved one.  Daily I must put my trust in God to protect us. Many people have shared specific situations where they feel that God has protected them.  I have come to believe that the little things we may see as a nuisance are a result of God’s protection.  Things such as airplanes that do not depart on time due to a malfunction, missing a flight and then finding out later that it didn’t reach its destination, or going to the doctor complaining of a persistent pain, only to find a bigger problem that can be treated – yet fatal if it had been left unattended. God is indeed our great protector.  When you trust in him, you truly fear no evil.  God is always with us – every moment of every day.  Isn’t it comforting to know that even when we die, we will live eternally with God in His kingdom.  Now that is Good News! Dear Heavenly Father, help us to share with others the Good News that we have in Christ.  We praise you for sending your good Shepard to be our great protector.  In Jesus’ name we pray. NANCY DAY

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