With Us....

The Shepherd isn't always out in front leading His sheep....
in the lengthening twilight, when the sheep must pass through the darkest shadows in the deepest wadis (valleys), The Shepherd drops back and walks with them." ~Ray VanderLaan

We spent one morning in Israel watching a real shepherd girl lead her sheep on a rocky hillside. It was just as you would imagine....she walked in front of a bunch sheep and they followed her....it was fairly uneventful. (Although fascinating to watch the 23rd Psalm come to life.)

However, as the sun set and night came, the shepherd headed to the back of the flock...among the sheep.

In the dark valley where it was "hard to see" where there were "unknowns"...the shepherd walked AMONG them. 

And in our valleys....and our dark nights....OUR Shepherd walks among US.
I...love...this.

"Because You are with me in those dark moments,

with Your protection and guidance, I am comforted." ~Psalm 23:4b 

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; 

When you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." ~Isaiah 43:2 

"Be strong. Take courage. Your God, is right there with you.

He won't let you down; He won't leave you." ~Deuteronomy 31:6

Whether you find yourself or someone you love, in a valley today...

no matter how dark it is...

make no mistake, 

He is With You and He is with them.

God, Thank You for walking WITH us.

In His Dust,

DCC