Psalm 23:4 says, “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” 

The idea of God wielding a rod may sound a bit disconcerting at first. This can be especially true if one’s view of God is that of a supreme being who is sitting back and waiting to strike at a wayward child. But rest assured, when David wrote this psalm, he did so with the experience of himself being a shepherd.  He knew that a good shepherd would use his rod to fiercely defend the sheep from wolves and any other predator that may come to inflict harm upon the sheep. 

The shepherds rod was a blunt force instrument, used to beat off an enemy intending to harm the flock. The rod was a comfort to the sheep, as their shepherd was going to protect them with it.

For the christian to recognize the protection of God over their life is to bring rest to a fearful and striving life. We can walk confidently along through the journey without fear of harm.  We know that the keeper our our soul is also the keeper of our days.

My friends, take comfort in the rod of God!

Steve