The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

IF NOT the most popular, one of the most outstanding scriptures in the bible would have to be the book of Psalms.

Songs, poems and plays have been made to teach Christians the meaning of the book of scripture.

Psamls 23: 4 states: “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.”

If you did not learn this scripture in your days as a child, it is not too late to get familiar with the verses in this particular book.

A number of Bahamians spoke with Tribune Religion in regards to why the scripture is important to them.

Kayshela Bethel, an Anglican Church member, said: “This is the most confident scripture in the psalms bible verse, for me. It confirms what God says in other parts of the bible, that he is always with his people. By believing this particular verse, we don’t have to be fearful or afraid of anything because he will always order our steps and direct our paths.”

For Stacey Gibson, another Anglican Church member, the scripture is telling her that she is never alone, no matter what she is going through.

“Even though you may be walking through the valley, this verse is saying that there is a way for you to get past the valley. Just know that you won’t always be there. This says that no matter what horrific situation comes your way, you will eventually get past it,” said Ms Gibson.

Tammy Hepburn said the scripture reminds her of the story that speaks about the three brave men, Shadrach, Meshach and Abendnego. She said: “It teaches us that though trouble may come, God is always with you. Even the story about Daniel in the lion’s den, God was with him. They might have been fearful, but they didn’t show it. God said if you are for me, I am in you. You supposed to have the word in your heart already and know that God is with you. God said things will rise up against you, but it is not going to prosper.”

Even though this world we live in is filled with evil, Aliyah Davis said, people have to know that God has their back. She said you cannot be fearful of things of this world, because there is a higher power that keeps persons covered, and that is God. Ms Davis said this is where people’s faith is tested, when they are faced with trouble and fears.

“You should be able to take on the world, not let the world take on you. The journey of life calls for miseries and trials, but it’s all a test. You don’t need anyone to believe in you, but God. He will never forsake you,” said Ms Davis.

Jessica Turnquest, added her views saying: “ This bible verse is probably hung up in many Christian homes, and sometimes stamped on their car bumpers. It is very popular because it has so much meaning and it’s also catchy. I learned it as a little girl and I never forgot it and I will teach it to my children as well. I want them to know that God will never leave them, and whatever happens to them in terms of troubles, I want them to know that they are never alone.”