The Rod and The Staff

As we continue our look at Psalm 23, we can see in verse 4 the phrase, "your rod and your staff, they comfort me." It's interesting to note that the rod and the staff are the same Hebrew word, meaning that it is one instrument that has two distinct purposes.

First, the rod. It's an instrument of power, punishment and protection. In Exodus 3 & 4 we see it as the source of Moses' strength as well as disobedience. As an instrument of protection, a shepherd would beat the ground and bushes with the rod to scare off any predators that might be lurking nearby. That's why the young shepherd David had no fear of bears or lions - he had a rod. And in Hebrews 12:7-12, we see the that the Lord disciplines those He loves. The Word is a rod of discipline (2 Timothy 3:16).

The staff, on the other hand, is an instrument of peace. The curved end, or the crook, was used to lift up lambs and place them beside their mothers. It was also an extension of the shepherd's arm and used to guide the sheep. As such, the staff represents the role of the Holy Spirit who is the One who guides us into truth, walking beside us as our the paraclete (John 14:25-27; 15:26-27; 16:13-15).

We need not fear the rod or the staff. They comfort us. Whether it is in correction or guidance, the Holy Spirit is there to help us know and follow Jesus better. The better we know Jesus, the better we know the Father. Celebrate the rod and the staff and for the comfort brought to bear in our lives.