The darkness of valleys is common to all believers, but comfort comes from the Lord - 'I shall not want', 'I shall not fear', 'I shall dwell in His presence'. The Shepherd's presence is central to Psalm 23 - the path through the valley is at the Shepherd's direction and is intended as a means of salvation for many and the good of His people. The believer can walk in comfort, calm and composed, knowing it is the Shepherd's valley and that He is present. The Shepherd's location is with us - suffering drives us to pray and remember that we are not alone. The devil does not fear the sheep but the Shepherd. The Shepherd also protects His sheep - the power of sin and death have been destroyed by the rod of His Cross and He guides them with His staff. Through all the valleys of this life, Christ is our Shepherd companion. When we cannot see through the darkness, we can hear the word, 'You are with me'. Nothing can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus.