The Shepherd and His Names: Finding God in Psalm 23Àpẹrẹ

Jehovah-Shammah - “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me” (Psalm 23:4).

The Lord is There

Life can sometimes feel like a long, winding path filled with ups and downs. But Psalm 23:4 gives us this incredible reassurance: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me.” That’s where the name Jehovah-Shammah comes in—it means “The Lord is there.” No matter where we find ourselves, God’s presence is constant.

This name first appears in Ezekiel 48:35, when God promises to be with His people even after they’ve faced suffering and exile. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how lost, hurt, or alone we feel, God is still with us. That’s what “You are with me” in Psalm 23:4 is all about—it’s a promise that we are never abandoned, even in life’s darkest moments.

In this verse, we also see the rod and staff, two tools a shepherd uses to take care of the sheep. The rod is a strong, sturdy tool used to protect the flock from danger and keep them safe. It also helps guide and correct them when they start to wander. Think of it as God’s way of lovingly keeping us on the right path.

Then there’s the staff—that long stick with a curved end. The shepherd uses it to gently lead the sheep, pull them back when they stray, and even lift them out of trouble. It’s a symbol of God’s tender care, guiding us step by step.

And let’s talk about comfort for a second. Originally, the word meant “together-strength”—not just making someone feel better but actually giving them the strength to keep going. That’s exactly what God does for us. He doesn’t just take away our struggles; He walks through them with us, giving us the courage and strength to press on.

At the end of the day, Psalm 23:4 reminds us that God’s presence turns fear into trust and despair into confidence. When we focus on Jehovah-Shammah, we can face any valley knowing that He’s there—protecting, guiding, and comforting us every step of the way.

So, if you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed today, take heart. You are never alone. Your Shepherd is right there with you, leading you through.