Laced With Grace – Christian Devotions

Walking the Valley

By Sherri Evans September 22, 2015 Character, Devotion, Faith, General, Hope, Inspirational, Life, Prayer, Reflection, Scripture

dunes.sunset

 

Ps 23:4   

 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff,

they comfort me.

NIV

Today we wait… in the hospital waiting room for news about our loved one.  News that has life altering consequences for us.  As we sit,  my mind goes to this passage of Scripture.  “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. ” This line is so beautiful poetically.  But walking through it?  It is hard to find the beauty in the valley.  In the valley is daunting shadows.  Creepy silhouettes and always, always, the looming fear of “what if”?

As we sit, I gaze around the room, grateful.  Grateful because as we face this dark time, we know our loved one is right with God.  The Son.  The Sun that can drive away all darkness.  The Son that can drive away all fear.  Grateful that we know Him who holds our beloved’s life in His hands.  Grateful that He alone gets to decide the length of days.  And He alone imparts comfort and peace even in the valley.

Because our Father, the Good Shepherd, walks beside us, we can walk confidently even through the dark night of the soul.  He holds our hand and graciously turns the dark to light before us and makes the rough places smooth. With His rod and staff, He tenderly cares for His sheep.  He walks before them and scopes out new territory to guard against predators.  He applies the oil to the hurting lambs and carries the wayward ones upon His shoulder.  He lovingly guards over His precious ones.

So many people are hurting in the world today.  Many of them are walking alone.  Unaware that the Good Shepherd is walking behind, attempting to restore them to the fold, and fulfill His purpose for their lives.  Is that you, today?  Do you feel alone in your trials and sufferings?  Is the darkness of the valley crowding in around you, smothering you, blocking all hope of sunlight?  Take heart my friend!  There is One who walks with you.  The darkness does not frighten Him at all.  Turn to Him and find comfort for your hurting soul!

Dear Lord, I pray today for the readers who are walking through a dark place.  The valley of the shadow of death- be it physical, spiritual or emotional.  Let them see the flicker of Your light casting a cheery light into their darkness.  May they find comfort in the shelter of Your wings.  Comfort them.  Hide them.  Reveal Yourself to them in a special way that speaks personally to each heart.  In Jesus’ Name.  Amen.

Sherri.sig

 

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