“ when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me” (Ps. 23:4, CSB).
The most difficult thing about walking through the valley of the shadow of death is the uncertainty. When you are walking in the shadows or difficult times in your life, you have no way of knowing what is lurking around the corner unseen. It’s unsettling.
But there is one thing we can be certain of is that when we walk through the dark valleys, we are not alone. We are in the company of the Good Shepherd. Our Savior will not let us sink if we trust in Him. He will pull us out of the miry clay and set our feet on solid ground. Psalm 40:2 says, “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”
When we are trapped in the miry clay and cannot reach up, He will reach down to us! We can never be in a state so dangerous or broken that God can’t rescue us.
Sometimes the very things that make us think that God is not at work-the trials, tragedies, and difficult circumstances constitute the very work God is doing. The darkest valleys are where we learn the deepest lessons. As I am walking my darkest valley, I am learning so much about life, myself, and most importantly God.
You can learn about faith through books and sermons but the real school of faith is located in the depths of the valley, not on the mountaintop. God’s lesson plans for us may involve boat rides across stormy seas, fiery furnaces, or journeys through dark valleys.
John 16:33
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
God will see you through!
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you.
God never said the rivers wouldn’t rise or the flames of the fire blaze. What He did promise is that He would be with you through it all protecting and guiding you. God’s plans for you are eternal plans, not temporary. He’s in it with you for the long haul and He will see you through until you are standing face to face with Him in heaven.
God sees your struggle
Romans 5:3-4
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
The Lord your God is not blind to your struggles, but He is allowing His character to mature in you. He wants you strong and mighty with your confidence resting only in Him.
2 Corinthians 4:17
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.
