The Enemy Hates Psalm 23
- Tabitha Deller
- Mar 27, 2025
- 3 min read
“Every shadow can lead us back to light. Every fear can point us back to faith. Every pain can find comfort in God’s purposeful and perfect plan of redemption.”
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4, ESV)
The evidence of shadows points to the presence of light. There are no shadows without light, and just as that contrast in this verse gives us insight into the power of light, we also see the power of life over death, faith over fear, and comfort over pain. Because God is an overcomer (John 16:33), He makes us more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). He has already won the victory for you and me, and because of that, we do not struggle in vain.
God never promised us an easy life, but He did promise that He would always be with us, never leave us, and never forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6-8, Hebrews 13:5-6).
So, no matter where you are on your motherhood journey, when the shadows of death are all you can see, the fear of evil feeds your anxiety, or the pain of the struggle is crippling, take heart and remember these words from one of my favorite songs by Leanna Crawford…
So just say it to yourself 'til you believe it
And I'm feeling like I'm needing it right now
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want
He leads me by still waters 'til my fears are gone
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Oh, I know You are with me, my Father, my friend
Your goodness and mercy will follow me all of my days
I know by Your still waters, I'm safe
God's word is powerful. It truly is sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), and it is our only offensive to weapon against the enemy of our souls, the father of lies, and the (little g) god of this world. Because of our authority in Christ, satan is a defeated foe. We fight from a position of victory, not for it. We can speak truth to lies and walk confidently through every shadow-filled valley knowing that.
Every shadow can lead us back to light. Every fear can point us back to faith. Every pain can find comfort in God’s purposeful and perfect plan of redemption.
My encouragement to you if the shadows seem dark, your faith feels weak, and your pain runs deep is this: The enemy hates Psalm 23. So, just say it to yourself over and over again. Read God’s Word, carry it in your heart, wield it well as you yield to Him, and He helps you stand up to the enemy again and again.
Action Steps:
Write down the scriptures referenced above, and try to memorize one or more of them. Put them in places you will see regularly as reminders of truth you can cling to. (John 16:33, Romans 8:37, Deuteronomy 31:6-8, Hebrews 13:5-6, Hebrews 4:12)
Prayer: Father, thank You for the power of Your Word. What do You help me live it out when I find myself in hard places full of dark shadows? Would You remind me that shadows come from the presence of light, and I can be grateful the light of Christ in me defeats any darkness that surrounds me? God, I thank You for verses and passages in Your Word that continually point me back to You and back to truth. Help me stand on that firm foundation and be steadfast in the hope I have, so I lack nothing I need to live this victorious life You have called me to. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Written by Tabitha, a mom grateful for the shadows that help me see the light