Thou Art With Me (No Sweeter Words)

Yesterday a friend asked me where I turn, in scripture, for comfort, esp. in the wake of losing a sister I dearly loved. I hardly knew what to say at first because many Psalms have comforted me, as well as many of Jesus words in the gospels such as ,  and Paul's words of comfort to the church..  but Psalm 23 is a living prayer in my soul...each verse a ministering breath of Heaven 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.4 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.5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Before feet touch the floor each morningwhat sweet comfort to whisper'I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me'... *** 'Thou art with me' no sweeter words My mortal tongue can boast(Save this 'for God so loved the worldHe gave his uttermost) 'Thou are with me' no sweeter peaceCan drive dread fear away Thy rod and staff will never ceaseTo be my strength and stay 'Thou art with me' no sweeter joyCan comfort sorrow's tearIn vain foes rally to destroyFaith's confidence and cheer   'Thou art with me' no sweeter FriendCan help or hear my prayerNo purer knowledge can defendThe path from here to There 'Thou art with me' no sweeter songCan fill my heart with praiseGoodness and mercy suffers longTo keep me all my days 'Thou art with me' I shall not wantWhatever comes my wayThy Presence thwarts the tempter's tauntOf 'did God really say?' 'Thou art with me' to gently lead Me to faith's sacred goalLife's ups and downs cannot impedeThe Shepherd of my soul Janet Martin