When Trust Becomes TestimonySample

When the Valley Lingers

Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4, NIV)

Valleys often require us to walk in the dark. Into a heaviness that falls and doesn’t lift. Into a shroud of mystery, or pain, or confusion. It’s a disorienting place where we don’t want to linger.

But the valley may linger longer than you hoped, and you can’t imagine how to get through. When darkness stays and faith is shaken, God’s presence never leaves. He is a good Shepherd guiding you through the wasteland. When you are faced with evil, He walks with you. And His rod and staff guide and comfort. His goodness follows you, even here.

In the unending pain and overgrowth, we do not have to be afraid. For His light penetrates through the blackness, making all darkness seem like light. His promises stand true when we are faced with the reality of putting them into practice.

God makes a way where we don’t see one. God sustains us when we think we can’t go one step farther. When we think our valley is too dark and deep for Him, God goes deeper still to find us and bring us home.

The truth for today is: God is in the valley. Nowhere is beyond His reach.

Prayer:

Good Shepherd, You walk beside me in the dark. You make my path steady, even when I stumble. Stay close as I walk this valley. You will lead me through. Amen.

Reflection Question:

Where have you sensed God walking with you in your valley?