“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. “James 1:2-4
When we are in, what seems our deepest valley, it’s difficult to think we’ll ever get out of it… isn’t it? Emotional and physical pain can overwhelm us…human emotions start to kick in: Fear, hurt, bitterness, feelings of abandonment, disgust, worry, anger and the like start to “whirlwind” around us. At times we can even become numb and feel as though we are standing still in the eye of a storm. When is this all going to end? Why me? What did I do to deserve this? These are all questions we ask…
One of the first things we must do as Christians…when we feel lower than low, is go to the Written Word of God. What He has to say means everything….everything. It just does, Ladies.
What God’s word says about “our valley”:
“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
In our darkest valleys-whether we are victims of illness, others or to are our very own sin- He is with us. Through forgiveness or repentance depending on the scenario, He promises to guide us, be by our side and give us comfort. People and life will let us down, but God never will. His goal is always to save us.
What God’s Word says about how to cope while we are in “our valley”.
“My Sheep listen to my voice; I know them, they follow me.” John 10:27
One of the most important things I’ve realized is not the methodology of getting out of a trial, it’s our reaction to our trial. This reaction is such a huge testimony to those around us and gives God glory. We are human- there will be times we won’t live out God’s word in our reactions. But, thankfully He is a forgiving God and remains there for us under every circumstance. He puts us back on track and our knowledge of this unworldly love keeps us coming back to Him. Our unworldly reactions speak loudly. Thank you, Lord.
What God’s Word says about what to do when we are out of “our valley”.
“Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what He has done for my soul.” Psalm 66:16
We are to share with others that they are not alone in this troubled world- God gets the glory for the way he has shaped us here on Earth. Even if we got ourself into our own messes- He doesn’t care, He wants to be glorified, worshiped, loved and told about.
What God’s Word says about how to serve Him while we are in “our valley”.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
Friends, I’ve heard that we are always in 1 of 3 places….in a valley, about to go into a valley, or just getting out of one. No matter where we are in life we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ. We can carry out His love through our reactions, our testimony, serving others, encouraging others, and learning from our pain to help others in the same pain.
As Jesus bore our sins on the cross, He was in pain beyond words-yet he served and laid his life down inorder to give us eternal life. If we are followers of Him, we are to be imitators of His ways…Our pain, their gain. Amen.
As I look at the photo above taken from the top of the Grand Canyon, I can’t help but think of it metaphorically. “Look where I was…I remember that …. Oh, dear I wouldn’t have signed myself up for that, but look where I am now. That valley actually looks beautiful from up here…I’m so grateful. God got me through that valley and there are more to come, I’m sure. But, glory be to Him no matter where I am standing.”
Missing you Ladies…but I will be back 🙂 God is doing a work in my life and I won’t miss the opportunity to share it with you. Much Love to YOU.
