Getting Through the Valleys, Pt. 1

This week, we are going to discuss how we can get through the valleys of life. Just as there are mountains to enjoy, there are valleys to be endured.

Getting Through the Valleys, Pt. 1

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."

(Psalm 23:1)

This week, we are going to discuss how we can get through the valleys of life. Just as there are mountains to enjoy, there are valleys to be endured. Pastor Charles Stanley preached on this subject in his Life Principles series. The title of his message was, "The Valley Experiences in our Life". He preached a powerful sermon from Psalm 23. I will share many of the points he makes in his message. My prayer for you as you read the devotions this week is that you will be blessed and encouraged. Many of you are walking through a valley. It is hard, painful, and you are confused. You have many questions and do not know why this is happening to you or your loved ones.

In Dr. Stanley's message, his primary text is a familiar and powerful one: the oft quoted Psalm 23. God continues to use this passage of Scripture to comfort His people when they are afraid, weary, exhausted. Psalm 23 is quoted often at bedsides, gravesides, hospitals, and on the battlefield. We see God's love for us so clearly in this text. The LORD is our shepherd!

Leanna Crawford has a new song out called "Still Waters (Psalm 23)". It is a great encouragement, and I invite you to listen here:

Here are some of the lyrics:

Great Aunt Maurine said at a hundred and three
Write scripture on your heart for when you need it
Cause anxiety hates Psalm 23
So just say it to yourself 'til you believe it
And I'm feeling like I'm needing it right now
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want
He leads me by still waters 'til my fears are gone
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
O I know You are with me
My father, my friend
Your goodness and mercy will follow me all of my days
I know by Your still waters I'm safe
Lord I believe You can set mе at ease
Turn this broken piеce in me to peace and quiet
I know there's power in Your word
So I'll say it over and over til my soul's reminded

The Lord did not promise an easy life with no pain or valleys. We will all walk hard paths, but the Lord did promise to walk with us and never to leave or forsake us. The valleys are what makes us the people God wants us to be. We may ask, is there any other way than the way of suffering? I think of Jesus and His crucifixion: all the agony He endured on the cross as He fulfilled the Father's will and purchased our eternal salvation. But after crucifixion, there is resurrection and exaltation. The road may be very hard for you right now, but keep in mind, God is still at work. He will make all things good.