January 30, 2026
— Oswald Chambers · Source: My Utmost for His Highest, June 4, "The Never-Failing God"
Psalm 23:4 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.
The valley of the shadow of death is not the end, but a tunnel to eternity. God's "rod" dispels fear, and His "staff" guides the way; this is not to exempt from suffering, but to offer absolute presence even in suffering. The old man's bright eyes are windows through which the soul touches eternity. Chambers reminds us that God has said, "I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee"—not for all our sin, selfishness and stubbornness; the old man's physical decay and life's regrets all stand under this never-failing promise.
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Shepherd in the valley. Let the old man, in his weak breaths, hear the steady sound of Your staff falling to the ground, and find complete peace. Please mend the broken pieces of his life, turning his pain into a badge of glory. May his bright eyes always gaze upon You, and may he lie peacefully in Your love that will never forsake him. Also, strengthen the hearts of his family, assuring them that in that perfect eternity, we will be reunited because of Your love. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.