Homilist Psalm 23:4 Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for you are with me… I. THE PATH OF LIFE AS SHADOWED BY DEATH. "The valley of the shadow of death." David does not speak of the article of death here as some suppose. He does not say, though I may walk, or though I should walk, or though I must walk, but though I walk. He is speaking of his walking it now. There is a bright sun, it is true, in the sky of life, otherwise there could be no "shadow": but the figure of death is so colossal that its shadow covers the whole sphere of our existence. II. THE PATH OF LIFE AS TROD WITH A FEARLESS SOUL. "I will fear no evil." 1. Some tread the valley of life with a stolid indifference. They seem utterly regardless of the dark shadows on the path, and whither the path conducts them. "Like brutes they live." 2. Some tread the path of life with a giddy frivolity. The everlasting jest and ceaseless round of hilarious excitement indicate that they have never been penetrated with a true idea of life. 3. Some tread the path of life with a slavish dread. They are afraid of their end. 4. Some tread the path of life with moral bravery. Thus did David. III. THE PATH OF LIFE AS WALKED IN COMPANIONSHIP WITH GOD. 1. Thou art with me as the infallible Guide in the ever-thickening gloom. 2. Thou art with me as a safe Protector from every conceivable evil. (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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. |
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