Walking through the Valley of the Shadow of Death; the corridor, long and dark.

The shadows of death glide overhead, whispering there’s no way out.

Everything around me screams death and decay, but to focus on it is to die.

However dark it may seem, my path is well lit, though I can only see an inch from my face.

The Shepherd, He walks – leading the way, His arm drawing me close to His side.

Unaware of how long it will take to travel this route, He assures me there’s a guaranteed end. “The shadows,” He says, “are just shadows of death – meant to scare you and cause you to doubt.” He said, “Keep your focus directly on me and eventually you’ll make it out. Just keep right on going, no matter how slow, and refuse to give up in between.”

So I focus on the Light, and begin taking small steps, holding Him tight as I go.

If I were to think, for even a moment, “I can find my way through by myself,”

the darkness would come, and the Light would seem dim, because my focus would be on me and not Him.

When I allow Him to lead I can walk and not stumble, because His way is straight and it’s sure.

He clears the path before my eyes; guiding me with His Light.

He’s the only One Who can guide me along; He’s traveled this way before.

He knows the pitfalls and the lay of the land and we’re certain to make it through.

I look forward to the things to come, though I don’t quite know what to expect.

This journey’s been hard, it’s been downright tough, but He’s kept me from going over the edge.

His eyesight sees further down the road than mine and He knows what’s coming up.

Each move He makes is filled with Wisdom and He is marked by Grace.

So I know I can put my trust in Him, and that He will see me through.

He’ll never fail me, nor leave me alone – my Savior, Jesus Christ.