Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. God uses the rod to signify authority, discipline (examination), and defense. Just as a shepherd uses his rod to establish his authority over the sheep, to sometimes discipline them and to defend them, we can receive comfort knowing that God is the final authority and that he loves us enough to discipline us and protect us. As the shepherd uses his staff, God also guides us, catches us when we fall, pulls us away from danger, and lets us know He is near and that we are special to Him. Psalm 23:4b NIV (supportive verses-Ezekiel 20:37; Hebrews 4:13; Romans 12:2; 1Peter 4:12-13)