Read Psalm 23
Psalm 23 begins with one of the most comforting truths in Scripture: God is our Shepherd. A shepherd knows each sheep by name, leads them to safety, provides for their needs, and stays with them through danger.
There are moments when we feel uncertain, stressed out, or exhausted. We may wonder how things will work out or whether WE have what it takes to do the task. Psalm 23 reminds us that our confidence and strength isn't based on our ability to navigate life alone, but that it's based on the Shepherd who walks with us and guides us.
One of the most powerful verses says, "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). God doesn't always remove the valley of the shadow of death, but He promises His presence in it. We don't have to face fear, loss, or hardship by ourselves. We can trust the Lord that that He will make us holy, we just have to trust in Him.
The psalm ends with hope in verse 6, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." God's goodness is not limited to our best days. His mercy follows us every day, and His love never leaves us, just like his presence.
Whatever you are facing, remember that the Shepherd sees you, knows your needs, and is faithfully leading you one step at a time towards the kingdom of heaven.
Prayer
Going back to the underlined sentence... Pray to God and ask him, " Have I been trusting in you and letting you control my life? Or have I been doing things by myself and taking on hardships that I think I can do by myself?"