Protected While Exposed

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I fear no evil, for You are with me;

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me (Psalm 23:4).

True believers, although they dwell safely under the protection of God, are, notwithstanding, exposed to many dangers, or rather they are liable to all the afflictions which befall mankind in common, that they may feel the better how much they need the protection of God. David, therefore, here expressly declares, that if any adversity should befall him, he would lean upon the providence of God. Thus he does promise himself continual pleasures; but he fortifies himself by the help of God courageously endure the various calamities with which he might be visited. 

Adapted from Hearts Aflame: Daily Readings from Calvin on the Psalms