In Biblical times a shepherd carried a rod and a staff. The rod was used to fend off predators and the staff was used to draw the sheep close for protection and comfort.
Psalm 23:4 says, “for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” How do the rod and staff comfort us? They rod was used to drive away enemies, like drives away our fears. The staff was used to draw the sheep closer to the shepherd, like God draws us near to Him. Remembering that God draws His children close to Him and fends off things that trouble us should bring us great comfort.
Reluctant Retiree 