“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.

“Blackface is a form of theatrical makeup used predominantly by non-black performers to portray a caricature of a black person. In the United States, the practice gained popularity during the 19th century and contributed to the spread of racial stereotypes such as the “happy-go-lucky darky on the plantation” or the “dandified coon”. In the United States, blackface declined in popularity beginning in the 1940s and into the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, generally considered highly offensive, disrespectful, and racist by the turn of the 21st century.” -Wikipedia.

When I was about four years old, I was terrified of the blackface man with white eyes, lips, and hands kneeling and singing “Mammy.” Each time the show appeared on our television on Sunday evenings, I screamed. My siblings would be livid because my father would make them turn the channel and stop scaring his baby. Daddy would take me on his lap, wipe away my tears, and assure me that everything was alright.

As we grow up, we realize that the blackface character and the boogeyman eventually disappear. Still, as adults, we face fears in situations we cannot control—things that can hurt us or even threaten our lives. My dad is no longer here, but he taught us about our Heavenly Father, who knows the future and keeps all His beloved children safe in His arms forever.

The 23rd Psalm is one of the most loved passages in the Bible. It teaches us about Jesus, our Great Shepherd of the sheep, who protects us from harm and danger. Psalm 23:4 says, “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.

In Old Testament times, travelers had to climb into the mountains to reach Jerusalem. Some areas were narrow and dark; murderers, thieves, and others with evil intentions would lurk in the shadows, waiting to overtake those most vulnerable. It is a beautiful analogy of how God provides His loving protection through the dark, treacherous paths we may take in life.

Losing a job or home, the sudden death of a  loved one, mental depression, total financial loss, and yes, even catastrophic illnesses, are just some of the things that could send any individual into despair and fear. But as God’s beloved children, we have a sure hope and a place to run in the time of trouble, right into the safe and secure arms of our Heavenly Father. “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7.

Jesus truly knows what is best for us, and He has promised that He will never leave us nor forsake us. Yes, my friends, He lovingly leads us through the valleys of this life, wiping away every tear that we shed. Our sovereign Lord is the comforter and lover of our souls; He alone gives us the strength that we need to run this race day by day.

Psalm 46:1-2 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;” We can praise God that His grace is sufficient, and all of His beloved children can say… I am safe and secure for Thou art with me!

Jesus, Savior, pilot me
Over life’s tempestuous sea;
Unknown waves before me roll,
Hiding rock and treach’rous shoal;
Chart and compass came from Thee:
Jesus, Savior, pilot me.
– Edward Hopper

May the peace and love of God surround you, and rest assured that everything will be alright!