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.
(Psalm 23:4, KJV)
The valley of the shadow of death … “valleys as dark as death” according to the Contemporary English Version. I don’t want to sound melodramatic, but I’ve been there. When I experienced abuse. When I lived through the pain of infertility. As I live through chronic pain.
Valleys as dark as death.
I’ve lived through them. And when I wasn’t in relationship with the Lord, when I tried to make it though those valleys by myself, I was fearful … even clinically depressed.
But now? After recommitting my life to Jesus over 18 years ago, I still experienced—I still experience—days in the valley. However, now I know I’m not alone. Never.
When I’m suffering, when I just can’t make it another moment, I know God is with me. I know He’ll never leave me (Heb. 13:5). Never
Even more, He’ll protect me from the wiles of the enemy. Knowing His word and His promises, I can resist my adversary (1 Peter 5:8-9).
And even more, He’ll comfort me when I’m in those valleys. I know I can climb on my Abba’s lap, and He’ll wrap His arms around me and comfort me in my pain.
So I know I can walk through those valleys, knowing my Shepherd is beside me. And when I need it, He’ll carry me through.
If you're in a valley, remember this: Your Shepherd is beside you too. He's walking with you ... and carrying you when you can't even crawl.
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