— Psalm 23:4 ESV
Are you afraid of shadows? Literally, a shadow is a dark image cast by a body that is blocking the light. What, then, is the "shadow of death" to which the psalmist refers? The shadow of death is the dark place where fear takes over because the threat of death has blocked the light of life and confidence. Death is our enemy, and we should not cozy up to it, but neither should we stop in that valley paralyzed by fear. Jesus defeated death on Easter morning!
The shadows of death is Satan's opportunity to make you doubt. He will try to get you to give up on the Lord's plans and purposes for your life. He's hoping you'll forget the authority you have over him and his minions. Jesus said, "And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons..." (Mark 16:17).
So, as much as he can, Satan uses shadows and fear. David knew all about them and walked through this valley a few times. David, however, didn't let it stop him. He knew that he was not alone. His shepherd was with him. The Lord was leading him and guiding him through life and through the threat of death. Whenever a shadow tried to scare him, he looked to the Lord.
Don't let Satan scare you off the path of life the Lord wants you to take. Like David, look to the Lord. The plans and purposes He has for you will come to pass, if you just keep looking at His rod and staff – instead of the shadows.
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