Dericka Canada Cunningham, GBW Founder
March 28, 2022
This Week's Anchor
“Yea, though I walk through the valley
of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me;
thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
Psalm 23: 4 (KJV)
Most of us have been tuned into the Supreme Court confirmation hearing for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson this week. What a journey it has been. I haven’t watched the entire process with hopes of circumventing the vicarious impact of witnessing racism unfold before me. However, I’ve gathered a few moments that have certainly illustrated the story. One memorable moment of the hearing process included the viral impassioned speech given by Senator Cory Booker. Some of us might not always agree with Senator Booker’s perspective, but in this case, he delivered some timely affirmation to Judge Jackson, and to Black women across the nation. As I watched moments and browsed through photos that captured the emotion of this hearing, I was deeply moved by one notable observation—Judge Jackson’s unrelenting calm despite being faced with a relentless barrage of pointed questions. As Senator Booker wrapped up his speech, he encouraged Judge Jackson by reminding her that “God’s got you”. Senator Booker was spot on with this proclamation because God’s presence could certainly be felt through our screens.
As I pondered on these moments, our anchor scripture (one of which I memorized growing up) came to mind—“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Judge Jackson waded through the trenches in this hearing. And yet, she did so boldly. I don’t know much about Judge Jackson, but from what I’ve read and observed, it appears as though she is a woman of faith. During the hearing, she seized the moment to express gratitude to God for His presence in sharing, “I must also pause to reaffirm my thanks to God, for it is faith that sustains me at this moment”. What an honor for us to witness this great example of that which David also expressed in Psalm 23. In it, we are reminded of several important truths that can ground us when we find ourselves in spaces, like Judge Jackson, defending our purpose, character, and abilities.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (v.1)—God is our protector. He watches over us. He’s ahead of us, next to us, behind us, above us, and within us. He guides us to places only He can lead us. In Him, we have everything we need.
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” (v.2)—In Him, we find perfect peace, unwavering calm, and unshakable joy.
“He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.” (v.3)—He has the healing power to make us and our lives new at any moment. With God, we are granted great redemption, recovery, and strength.
“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” (v.4)—He will never leave us—not at our mountain tops, and not in our valley lows. With our limitless God, fear becomes limited. Being afraid doesn’t hold us back, and we can persevere despite fear.
“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” (v.5)—There is no Divinely opened door that any enemy can close. God’s overflowing purpose for us will always prevail, and there is nothing and no one in this world that can take that from us.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (v.6)—The love, joy, grace, and peace that God provides us do not run out. His presence is everlasting and His love is ever-flowing.
Come what valleys may let us enter this week with the boldness displayed by our sister Ketanji this week and in the songs of David. May we be anchored in unshakable confidence. May we stand firm in the presence of the Holy Trinity. May we endure in our faith that no matter what and no matter who, God’s got us!
Reflection
What is resonating for you about this scripture and/or this devotion?
What valleys do you need support in this week? This month? This year?
What do you need from the Holy Trinity to help you navigate moments of challenge?
What intention(s) do you want to set to connect and/or reconnect with being grounded this week?
Related Scriptures to Ground You Through this Week
Psalm 119:116-117
Psalm 139:8-10
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 43:2
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Philippians 4:13
My Through-the-Week Reflection Guide
A Song of Inspiration
Quote of Love & Liberation
“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up,
this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.”
Rosa Parks
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