"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me."–Psalm 23:4
Do you rest upon the Lord Jesus Christ alone for all of your acceptance with God? Are you a true believer whose sole hope of salvation is the glorious Person, and the finished, approved righteousness of the blessed Mediator? Then, like the Psalmist, embrace this promise, and do not be fearful when contemplating the hour of death. The Scripture says nothing about dwelling in the valley, or abiding in the valley, but rather walking "through the valley." The Lord has promised, "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee" (Isaiah 43:2). Just as surely as God led Israel "through the Red Sea" (Hebrews 11:29), He will lead His people "through the valley of the shadow of death," and we shall someday "enter in through the gates of the city" into the presence of Christ (Revelation 22:14). How can a soul have calmness when thinking about this final enemy? What knowledge can give a peace that passes understanding to the heart when facing death? It is knowing that the sting of death, which is sin, has been removed by the substitutionary atonement and victorious resurrection of the dear Savior. It is in believing that all God required for my acceptance has been accomplished by that One now seated at the right hand of the majesty on high. "Did you hear what Jesus said to me? 'They're all taken away. Your sins are pardoned and you are free. They're all taken away.'" "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). Where there is no sin, there is no judgment; and where there is no judgment, there is no fear. The shadow of death and its valley need not be a terror to the hearts of blood-washed sinners. May God give us grace to look forward to the hour of our departure with perfect composure and serenity, for then we will be "with Christ, which is far better" (Philippians 1:23).