Shadow and God’s Light - All Our Daily Bread Daily Devotionals for 2026

Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 47-48, 1 John 3

Blessed are those who...walk in the light of your presence, Lord.
Psalm 89:15

Today's Scripture & Insight: Psalm 23

When Elaine was diagnosed with advanced cancer, she and her husband, Chuck, knew it wouldn't be long until she'd be with Jesus. Both of them treasured the promise of Psalm 23 that God would be with them as they journeyed through the deepest and most difficult valley of their fifty-four years together. They took hope in the fact that Elaine was ready to meet Jesus, having placed her faith in Him decades before.

At his wife's memorial service, Chuck shared that he was still traveling "through the valley of the shadow of death" (Psalm 23:4 nkjv). His wife's life in heaven had already begun. But the "shadow of death" was still with him and with others who'd greatly loved Elaine.

As we travel through the valley of shadows, where can we find our source of light? The apostle John declares that "God is light; in him there is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5). And in John 8:12, Jesus proclaimed: "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

As believers in Jesus, we "walk in the light of [His] presence" (Psalm 89:15). Our God has promised to be with us and to be our source of light even when we travel through the darkest of shadows.

By: Cindy Hess Kasper

Reflect & Pray
What valley have you been walking through? Which of God's promises provide light for your journey?

Loving God, thank You for Your promise to never leave me. I trust You to be my strength, my provision, and my joy throughout my life.