The Believers' Valley Experience

Have you ever had the heartache so deep or hardship so difficult that it’s almost impossible to stand? Like a giant wave crashing on the shore, some trials threaten to overwhelm us. 

We all experience valleys in life. They might be of our own making – for instance, when we choose to disobey God and our fellowship with Him grows cold. Or perhaps other people cause our suffering in situations such as job termination, marital infidelity, or betrayal by a friend. 

And sometimes our heavenly Father Himself leads us into the valley. Although He could steer us around suffering, He chooses not to because He has a specific purpose in mind. 

So, when life breaks you, it is because you are ready to be put back together differently. Every piece of you that feels shattered is a piece that will find a new place, a new purpose, a new meaning. Trust that the cracks are where the light gets in. And sometimes, in our brokenness, we find our greatest wholeness. We find the courage to rebuild, to reimagine, to redefine what it means to be strong. You are not broken; you are breaking through.

Psalm 23 uses four words to describe these valley experiences: shadow, death, fear and evil. These terms evoke images of oppressive circumstances, grievous affliction, and deep discomfort, and there is no way to hurry through them. That’s because both the depth and length of the trial are determined by the Lord. 

Thankfully, God promises to be with us and to use every valley, even those of our own making, for our benefit (Romans 8:28). It is our job to walk steadily, attuned to His presence and trusting in His promises. ”And, we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." 

Psalm 23:1–6 “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want, he makes me to lie down in green pasture; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the day of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” 

Prayer

Thank you, God, that You are my Shepherd who cares for me and gives me rest. Thank you that You restore me, provide for me and lead me in the way of righteousness and hope. I have nothing to fear so help me to see You with me in every situation. Comfort me, protect me and anoint me I pray. I give You praise for You are the One who pursues me every day of my life as I dwell with You and seek Your face.

Amen

Blessings

Toby

Dr Marishjean Paton Dr.Div PhD

Melqowsh Ministries and Melqowsh Bible College

Our thanks to Toby for this month’s Blog contribution

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