Our Shepherd in the Darkest Valley

When we walk through the darkest valleys—hurricanes, wars, fires, or the loss of loved ones—our pain often feels beyond words. In these moments, Psalm 23 paints a beautiful picture of the Lord as our Shepherd, guiding us with his comforting presence, even in the deepest of sorrows. When we don’t know how to pray, we can turn to Scripture as our anchor. God’s words not only give voice to our grief but draw us closer to his heart. As we lift up people who are suffering, his Word becomes a lifeline, reminding us that even in the valley, we are never alone.

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

God, we come before you, asking for your tender mercy to surround those who feel lost, hopeless, afraid, and heartbroken. In their confusion and pain, draw them near to your heart. You are our Good Shepherd, and we trust in your unfailing love. Lord, we ask that you provide for every need—physical, emotional, and spiritual—for those who have lost loved ones, homes, belongings, and communities. In this time of overwhelming loss, be their refuge, their strength, and their comfort. We need you, God. Please move powerfully in their lives and bring your healing and peace. Amen.

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters…

Father, in the midst of overwhelming disaster and war, peaceful streams and green meadows feel distant, almost unimaginable. Yet, we turn to you, our source of true peace, trusting that you alone can provide safety for the suffering, rest for the weary and comfort for the heartbroken. We lift up every person enduring tragedy, heartache and loss, and every first responder on the frontlines. Be their strength, their guide, and their refuge. Lord, lead us through this darkness and into your peace that surpasses all understanding. We trust you to carry us through.

He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

Holy Spirit, we cry out for your presence to renew the strength of our brothers and sisters who are facing overwhelming circumstances right now. With every breath they take, fill their hearts with your comfort and unshakable hope. Fill them with the peace that only you can provide. Guide each step they take on paths that draw them closer to you, and may their journey be a testimony that brings honor to your name. Sustain them, uplift them, and show them your faithfulness in the midst of their trials.

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.

God, as people walk through their darkest valleys, let them feel the closeness of your presence. Surround them with your protection and pour out your comfort in ways only you can. Be with all who have lost buildings and communities and with our friends and family devastated by floods and war. We cry out for your peace to reign in regions torn apart by conflict—bring safety to people in danger. Guide and provide for the communities facing the aftermath of natural disasters as they begin the hard journey of recovery, rebuilding, and healing. Replace their fear with unwavering trust in you, their refuge and strength.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Father, we ask you to prepare a table of abundance for every soul facing overwhelming loss and devastation. In the midst of their pain, we trust you to provide, protect, and lift up your people, even in the face of war and adversity. Anoint their heads with your oil of blessing, and let their cups overflow with provision, safety, and peace that can only come from you. May their lives be filled with your presence in such a way that it brings you glory, even in the darkest of times. We trust you, Lord, to show your faithfulness.

Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Thank you, God, for your relentless goodness and unfailing love that chases after us every day of our lives—on the days when we feel your nearness, and even on the days when you seem distant. Holy Spirit, we ask that you reveal your goodness and love to those who cannot feel your presence right now. Open their eyes to see that you are with them, even in their darkest moments. We place our full trust and dependence on you, Lord, now and forever. You are our source, our refuge, and our hope.