Chances are you’re familiar with the words of Psalm 23. Quoted by presidents in times of national tragedy and claimed by millions as the ultimate words of hope, this passage has become one of the best-known Scripture portions in the world. One verse in particular shines in our darkest moments: “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).

All of us have experienced something of the valley of the shadow of death. After all, it’s impossible to avoid suffering in a world permeated by sin. We’ve endured broken relationships, heartbreaking loss, and deep grief. But what about the valley of illness? What happens when suffering lingers, and you can’t see the end of the valley?

GOD IS OUR ULTIMATE HEALER

In 2 Corinthians, the apostle Paul describes our bodies as tents, or temporary dwelling places. Through illness and aging, our bodies will be “torn down,” but “God will have a house in heaven for us to live in, a home he himself has made, which will last forever” (2 Corinthians 5:1b GNT). There will be no more valleys, “no more death, no more grief or crying or pain” (Revelation 21:4 GNT).

Until that day, God has given us the gifts of his Spirit, who offers comfort and strength, and his Word, which reminds us of our Heavenly Father’s love for us. Whether you’ve experienced suffering through sickness in your own life or witnessed a loved one endure illness, you can find hope in God’s Word today. In times of short-term sickness, chronic pain, or long-term illness, you can claim these promises from the Scriptures and rest in God’s unfailing care for you.

Heavenly Father, your Word tells me that you are the Good Shepherd. You have promised to be with me through every trial, even sickness and pain.

I will look for those that are lost, bring back those that wander off, bandage those that are hurt, and heal those that are sick; but those that are fat and strong I will destroy, because I am a shepherd who does what is right.

Ezekiel 34:16 GNT

I have put my faith in Jesus Christ and trust in him for the forgiveness of my sins. I know that by his wounds, I am healed, and my soul is safe in you.

Christ himself carried our sins in his body to the cross, so that we might die to sin and live for righteousness. It is by his wounds that you have been healed.

1 Peter 2:24 GNT

Your Word shows me that you are all-powerful. I pray that, if it is your will, you would restore my health so that I can tell others about your wonder-working power that healed me.

The Lord will help them when they are sick and will restore them to health.

Psalm 41:3 GNT

Thank you for the people in my life who help me carry this burden. I know that you provide for me through my fellow believers. Help me to carry others’ burdens faithfully, even in this time.

Help carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will obey the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2 GNT

Lord, even though I am suffering, I trust in your promises. I look forward to the day when I will be with you, and this time of trouble will be a distant memory.

And this small and temporary trouble we suffer will bring us a tremendous and eternal glory, much greater than the trouble.

2 Corinthians 4:17 GNT

Please help me to continue reading your Word, praying to you, and trusting in your will. Help me find comfort in your promises.

Do not be afraid—I am with you! I am your God—let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you.

Isaiah 41:10 GNT

In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen.