Tag Archives: Encouragement

Jun17

Comforting Grace: A Word for the Grieving Heart

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To the one who is grieving, I see you.

I may not know your whole story, but I know the ache of an empty chair, the silence that fills the rooms of a home, the whisper of memories that come unbidden in the stillness of night, and the unexpected tears that fall when the world keeps turning. I know how your heart may feel like it’s walking through a landscape that has changed forever.

But I also know this: God sees you.

The same God who set the stars in the sky, who parted the sea, and who holds the universe together —He bends down to listen to the cries of the brokenhearted.

“Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!” (Psalm 116:2)

You may feel forgotten or overlooked by the world, but in God’s eyes, you are deeply cherished.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)

He does not rush your grief, nor does He ignore your tears. In fact, He gathers them in His bottle and draws near with a tenderness only heaven can give.

“You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book.” (Psalm 56:8)

There will be days when the sorrow threatens to swallow your joy whole. On those days, cling to this truth: You are not alone. Christ Himself knows what it is to grieve, and He walks this road beside you, step by step. And in time, He will speak life into the places that feel so empty.

Your tears are sacred. Your story still matters. And your God is still creating beauty from ashes.

Even in this dark valley, you are not forgotten. Even in your loss, you are deeply loved. And even as you grieve, God is preparing joy that will one day return. He promises:

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5).

Until that morning dawns, rest in this: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not walking alone.

With love and faith,

From the heart of one who knows

A Prayer for the Grieving Heart

Dear Heavenly Father, You are the God who sees. In the quiet spaces where sorrow lingers, draw near to every grieving heart. Wrap each hurting soul in Your peace that surpasses understanding. Speak hope into the silence, strength into the weariness, and comfort into the loneliness. Thank you for being near to the brokenhearted and binding up their wounds. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Related Verses:

  • “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:4
  • “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:5
  • “He will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair” Isaiah 61:3
  • “Those who sow in tears will reap with a song of joy.” Psalm 126:5



Jun2

Unfailing Peace When You’re Falling to Pieces

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"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, 
because they trust in You." – Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

Life has a way of unraveling right before our eyes. One moment, everything seems under control, and the next, the weight of the world crashes down. Unexpected loss, financial struggles, broken relationships, or health challenges can leave us feeling like we’re falling apart.

Yet, in the midst of chaos, God offers us something the world cannot: unfailing peace. A peace that steadies us when life shakes us. A peace that holds us together when everything else is falling apart.

The key to this peace isn’t found in changing our circumstances but in shifting our focus from the problem to the Problem-Solver. Isaiah 26:3 tells us that perfect peace comes when our minds are firmly fixed on God, rather than our troubles. When we trust in Him, we can rest in His unshakable presence, knowing He is in control even when we are not.

Lean into Scripture. Meditate on His promises, and let His truth calm your anxious heart. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to bring everything to God in prayer, and His peace will guard our hearts and minds. 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 6 - 7

Instead of carrying the burden alone, release it to God. Tell Him your fears, your worries, and your doubts. He invites us to cast our cares on Him because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7).

When fear tries to take over, remind yourself of how God has come through for you before. If He was faithful then, He will be faithful now. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

No matter what you’re facing today, take heart. You are not alone. God’s peace is not dependent on perfect circumstances—it is anchored in His perfect presence. Let Him hold you together, even when you feel like you’re falling to pieces.

A Prayer for Unfailing Peace

Dear Heavenly Father, When I feel overwhelmed, remind me of Your unfailing peace. Help me to fix my eyes on You instead of my circumstances. Strengthen my heart, calm my mind, and fill me with the assurance that You are in control. Thank You for being my refuge and my ever-present help in times of trouble. I choose to trust in You today and rest in the peace that only You can give. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Scriptures for Peace

  • John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
  • Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:16 – “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”

Even when life feels like it’s crumbling, God’s peace can anchor your soul. He will never fail you.

Mar19

Lord, What’s Next? Learning to Follow in Faith

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"Lord, what will You have me to do?" – Acts 9:6 (KJV)

When Paul encountered Jesus on the road to Damascus, his entire world changed in an instant (including his name!). In awe and humility, he asked the most important question anyone can ask the Lord: “Lord, what will You have me to do?” Notice Jesus’ response—He didn’t give Paul a full blueprint of his life’s mission. Instead, He simply told him, “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do” (Acts 9:6, NIV). One step. That was it.

If you’re like me, you probably want to see the entire roadmap before you take the first step. We like certainty, clear plans, and guarantees. But often, God operates differently—He only illuminates the very next step, asking us to trust Him for the rest.

Paul, later known as the apostle to the Gentiles, would go on to spread the Gospel across nations, write much of the New Testament, and suffer greatly for Christ. But at that moment, all he knew was to go into the city and wait. He obeyed, and as he took that first step of faith, God revealed the next. Then the next. And the next. Step by step, Paul followed, and looking back, we can see how God’s hand guided every part of his journey.

Perhaps you’re in a season of uncertainty. The path ahead seems dark, and you’re desperately wanting God to show you the full picture before you take another step. But what if, instead, He’s asking you to trust Him for just the next step? What if He is waiting for your obedience in the small things before He reveals more?

Looking back on your own faith journey, you may see a winding, zig-zagging path, but you will also see the unmistakable hand of God leading you. Even when you didn’t understand, He was there. Even when you felt lost, He was guiding. And He is still guiding you now.

So, if you’re wondering what to do next, ask Him as Paul did: “Lord, what will You have me to do?” Then, be still and listen. He will show you the next step, and as you step forward in faith, He will illuminate the path ahead—one step at a time.

A Prayer for Trusting God’s Guidance

Heavenly Father, I come to You with a heart that is seeking direction. Like Paul, I ask, “Lord, what will You have me to do?” I trust that You have a plan for my life, even when I can’t see the full picture. Give me the faith to take the next step, knowing that You will lead me every step of the way. Help me trust in Your perfect timing and rest in the assurance that You are in control. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflect on These Verses:

  • “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
  • “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
  • “We walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)

Feb19

Trusting God’s Guidance: Finding Clarity in Chaos

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Life is full of decisions, big and small. At times, we stand at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take. In these moments of uncertainty, God offers us a promise of guidance:

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” – Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)

God’s Guidance in Uncertainty

God doesn’t leave us to navigate life on our own. He is our ever-present guide, leading us through His Word, through prayer, and through the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Even when the road ahead seems unclear, we can trust that He is directing our steps. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us:

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

When we seek God, He makes His way known to us—not always in grand, dramatic revelations, but often in quiet nudges, deep peace, and His still, small voice.

Learning to Listen

Hearing God’s direction requires a heart that is willing to listen. In the busyness of life, we can become so consumed with our own plans that we drown out His voice. To hear Him clearly, we must:

  • Spend time in His Word – The Bible is our ultimate guide and reveals God’s character and wisdom.
  • Seek Him in prayer – When we bring our concerns to God, we invite His direction into our lives.
  • Be still before Him – In moments of silence, we allow room for His voice to speak.

Walking in Obedience

It’s not enough to hear God’s voice—we must also choose to walk in the way He shows us. Sometimes, His path may not be the easiest or the most logical by human standards, but it is always the best. James 1:22 urges us:

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”

Walking in obedience requires faith, but we can move forward confidently, knowing that God has our best interests at heart.

A Prayer for Guidance

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being my guide in every season of life. When I face uncertainty, help me to hear Your voice clearly and to trust the way You are leading me. Give me wisdom to discern Your will and the courage to walk in obedience. Even when the path ahead is unclear, I know You are faithful. I choose to follow You, step by step.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Encouraging Bible Verses to Hold Onto

  • Psalm 32:8 – “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
  • Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
  • John 10:27 – “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

No matter what decisions you face today, rest in the assurance that God is leading you. His voice is faithful, His way is sure, and He will never leave you to walk alone. Listen for His guidance and trust Him as you move forward.

Nov22

Empowering Family Caregivers with Faith, Love, and Hope

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November is National Family Caregiver Month, a time to honor and celebrate the selfless dedication of those who care for their loved ones with love and compassion.

The role of family caregivers often goes unrecognized, but your unwavering dedication and loving actions are deeply valued in God’s eyes. Love is the fuel that powers your caregiving, inspiring you to rise each morning with a heart full of compassion — to comfort, listen, and be present, even on the most challenging days. Let this love remind you of the boundless love God has for you. He equips you with strength and grace to keep pouring into others even when your own cup feels empty.

Every act of kindness and sacrifice you make is a reflection of His grace through you. In 1 Thessalonians 1:3, Paul emphasizes the importance of faith, love, and hope in your “labor of love”: “We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Your endurance and hope are not just admirable, but they are also a source of inspiration for others.

This journey can be long and challenging, but your faith in the Lord can sustain you. Remember, you are never alone; God walks beside you, providing peace, resilience, and strength. You have an immeasurable impact on your loved one’s life as a vessel of God’s love, serving as the hands and feet of Jesus.

Dear caregivers, take heart—your efforts are not in vain. They are seen and deeply appreciated. Let’s lift each other up in prayer, encouraging one another as we navigate this beautiful yet challenging journey together.

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank You for reminding us that our caregiving efforts matter to You. Please bless all the caregivers reading this today with strength and endurance as they navigate their journey. Fill their hearts with hope and remind them that their labor is not in vain. You see their efforts and honor their sacrifices. Surround them with Your love and give them moments of rest and renewal. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Related Verses:

  1. Galatians 6:9 (NIV): “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
  2. Colossians 3: 23 – 24 (NIV): “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

Nov16

God’s Whispers in the Storm: A Lifeline in Troubled Times

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God’s Word often shines brightest in our darkest seasons of life. When our circumstances feel overwhelming, His promises, whispered through Scripture, carry a sweetness that we might not fully appreciate in easier times. Like manna in the wilderness, His Word sustains us and nourishes our weary souls.

In Psalm 119:143, the psalmist reveals this profound truth: “Even though my troubles overwhelm me with anguish, I still delight and cherish every message you speak to me.” Troubles can weigh heavily on our hearts, but this verse provides a glimmer of hope to help lighten our burdens.

It’s often in hardships that we discover the depths of God’s faithfulness. The same verse that comforts us today may have seemed ordinary when life was simpler, but now it is a lifeline. The sweetness of His Word reminds us that He is near, He understands our pain, and He will carry us through.

If you feel overwhelmed with troubles today, open God’s Word and allow His promises to speak to your heart. You may find His truth tastes sweeter than ever before.

Related Verses:

  • “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
  • “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, When my troubles overwhelm me, and my heart feels heavy, help me find peace in Your Word. Instead of focusing on the stormy circumstances swirling around in my life, remind me of your faithfulness and help me find strength in Your truth. Thank you for being close to the brokenhearted. May Your power be made perfect in my weakness. Please fill me with Your peace that passes understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Oct7

Treasures in Heaven: Eternal Investments

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I used to drive by the abandoned home pictured here and imagine the stories from its glory days—when it was filled with a loving family and parents who watched their children grow up here. The walls likely heard the laughter of little ones and family discussions around the dinner table and offered shelter through the trials and joys of life. It was also a place where the land provided for the family, and they took pride in the fruits of their labor.

The fields that once flourished with crops and livestock are now overgrown, and the house is held together by rusty nails and creeping vines. The people who took such pride in building this home and pouring their hearts into their farm never dreamed it would one day stand in this dilapidated state.

Where’s Your Treasure?

This home symbolizes the temporary nature of many things we put our time, energy, and resources into. Jesus spoke about this in Matthew 6:20-21 when He said, “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of what the world tells us is valuable: wealth, possessions, status, or even the perfect home. We spend so much of our lives building these things up, believing they will provide us with security or happiness. However, just like the old abandoned house, the things of this world inevitably fade, break down, or are taken away.

Invest in Eternal Treasures

Jesus encourages us to invest in eternal treasures – the treasures in heaven. Unlike the material things we accumulate on earth, these treasures are not vulnerable to decay. They cannot be taken from us by time, weather, theft, or even death. When we prioritize the eternal – our relationship with God, the love we show to others, and the lives we touch – our hearts align with what truly matters.

This house and farm may no longer be a place where people gather or work the land, but it can still serve as a reminder to reflect on where we are placing our hopes. Are we building our lives on the shifting sands of earthly success, or are we rooted in the unshakable foundation of God’s promises?

A Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank You for this reminder of what truly matters. Please help us place our hope in Your eternal promises and not in the things of this world. Teach us to store up treasues in heaven and invest in what lasts forever - Your love, Your truth, and the lives of others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Related Verses:

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:2

Oct5

A New Day is Dawning: Finding Hope Amidst the Storm

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As we witness the heart-wrenching devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Helene across the Southeast, I’m reminded of the powerful promise found in Luke 1:78-79: “A new day is dawning: The sunrise from the heavens will break through in our darkness, and those who huddle in the night, those who sit in the shadow of death, will be able to rise and walk in the light, guided in the pathway of peace.”

In this time of unimaginable loss our hearts ache for those who have faced devastating losses. Families have lost loved ones and are left without homes, communities are shattered, and the emotional toll is unimaginable. In the face of such destruction, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by despair. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to be His hands and feet in times of need and bring hope to those in need of help.

God’s Presence in Difficult Times

To those who are hurting: Know that you are not alone in this darkness. Many stand with you, offering their support, prayers, and hands to help. Reach out and lean on your community. Let us carry one another’s burdens as we navigate this difficult journey together.

To those still facing the threat of danger, hold onto hope. Rescue is on the way. There are countless heroes among us—first responders, volunteers, and everyday citizens—who are dedicated to ensuring your safety. Trust that brighter days are ahead, and let the promise of a new dawn fill you with courage.

How Can You Help?

And to those not directly affected, you can make a difference, and your role is vital. Here are some ways you can be the hands and feet of Jesus in this crisis:

  • Pray: Start by praying for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Pray for their safety, for the rebuilding of their lives, and for peace in their hearts. Prayer is a powerful tool that can provide comfort and strength to those in need.
  • Give Financially: Consider donating to reputable organizations providing immediate relief efforts. Whether it’s food, shelter, or medical assistance, your contributions can help rebuild lives and restore hope.
  • Volunteer Your Time: Reach out to local churches or relief organizations. They may need volunteers to assist with food distribution, clean-up efforts, or shelter management. Your time and effort can make a significant impact.
  • Support Local Businesses: As communities begin to rebuild, local businesses will need our support more than ever. Choose to shop local, eat local, and support those who are trying to recover from this disaster.

Carry Each Other’s Burdens

In Galatians 6:2, we are reminded to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those suffering from the aftermath of this hurricane.

As we respond to this crisis, let’s not forget that our actions, no matter how small, can reflect the love of Jesus. In the coming weeks and months, as recovery efforts continue, let’s stay committed to helping our neighbors. May we be His hands and feet, bringing hope, healing, and restoration to those in need.

A Prayer for Today: 

Dear Heavenly Father, 

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, we ask for Your comfort and peace to surround every individual and family affected by this storm. Please provide them with strength and hope as they navigate the challenges ahead. 

Lord, we pray for the first responders and relief workers who are tirelessly serving those in need. Grant them safety and wisdom as they work to bring aid and comfort. May Your love shine through their actions, bringing encouragement to those who are hurting. 

For those of us who are not directly affected, stir within our hearts a desire to help. Show us how we can be Your hands and feet in this time of crisis. Help us to respond with compassion, generosity, and a willingness to serve our neighbors. 

We trust in Your promises, knowing that You are a refuge and strength in times of trouble. May Your presence be felt in every home, every community, and every heart that is hurting. 

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Related Verses:

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Oct2

Trusting God’s Plan in our Darkest Days

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“’For I know the plans I have for you,’
 declares the LORD,
‘ plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
 plans to give you hope and a future.'”
Jeremiah 29:11

Just like a caterpillar enters the dark, mysterious chrysalis before emerging as a beautiful butterfly, we often go through dark periods in life where it can be hard to see God’s hand at work. While walking through those valleys, we may feel alone, uncertain, and hopeless about the future. But even in those times, God is at work in us, bringing about transformation and growth that we cannot yet see.

God’s Promise in the Dark Valleys

The hopeful words of Jeremiah 29:11 remind us that God has a plan for each of us: “For I know the plan I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” This encouraging assurance was spoken to God’s people while they endured a long period of exile, feeling lost and abandoned. God saw their hardships, and He heard their cries for help. He met them in that lonely place and let them know His prosperous vision for their future. Even in their darkest time, God had not forgotten them. He was working for their good, preparing a future of hope and restoration.

God is Always Working, Even When We Don’t See It

In our own lives, we may experience seasons of difficulty where God’s presence feels distant. But just like the caterpillar in its chrysalis, those times are often the very moments when God is preparing us for something greater. His plans for us are always for good, even when we can’t yet see the end result.

So when you find yourself in a dark valley, remember that God is with you, working behind the scenes, transforming your circumstances for His glory and your good. Trust in His timing and have faith that, like the butterfly, you will one day emerge from the darkness with new strength, beauty, and purpose.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for your constant presence in our lives, even in the darkest valleys. Help us trust Your plans, knowing that You are always at work for our good, even when we can’t see it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Related Verses: 

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3: 5 - 6

Sep28

God’s Comfort in the Crisis: Even There, He Guides

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"even there Your hand will guide me, Your strength will support me." Psalm 139:10

Even in the ICU? Yes, even there.

Even in the fiercest storm? Yes, even in that place.

In the grips of unrelenting pain? The answer is still yes.

In the anguish of a shattered heart, in the loneliest hours of the darkest night, or under the weight of heartbreaking grief? Yes, even there.

In the long days of uncertainty and overwhelming worry? Yes, God’s hand remains steady.

Even there…?

Yes, even there.

Psalm 139:10 offers us the incredible assurance that no matter where we find ourselves – whether in life’s most triumphant moments or in its deepest valleys – God’s presence is unwavering. He is there to guide and support us, even in the places of profound pain and uncertainty.

When the path before you feels impossible to navigate, and your heart aches with exhaustion and doubt, you are not alone. His guiding hand is always with you, even in the darkest and most overwhelming circumstances. In the rubble of broken relationships or the quiet moments of despair when no one else can see, God sees you. He is already ahead of you, offering His comfort, guidance and strength.

Even in the sterile stillness of a doctor’s office, when the diagnosis feels like too much to bear or the future looks uncertain, God is present. He’s not just aware of your struggles – He’s actively working in the midst of them, holding you up and leading you forward, even when the way seems impossible.

Even if the outcome is uncertain or the road to healing long, God is the God of restoration. He can mend the deepest wounds. His presence doesn’t depend on the situation changing immediately – it rests in His constant, faithful love.

So, wherever you are today, no matter how heart-wrenching or isolating the moment feels, trust this: God is with you, guiding you through. He works within us, bringing peace and new strength, walking with us through the rubble – whether it leads to reconciliation or healing within ourselves.

There is no place too dark, no moment too painful for His love to reach. He is already waiting there to guide you, to offer His strength. Even there.

“Lord, in every season and place, remind us of Your constant presence. Whether we stand in joy or walk through pain, may we feel Your guiding hand and draw strength from Your love. Help us trust that You are with us, even in the hardest moments, and that Your grace will carry us through. Amen.”

Related Verses:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4