Spiritual Valleys Are Inevitable

“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

Dear Friends,

The shepherds Psalm, Psalm 23, is one of the most well-known and beloved passages in all of Scripture. The Psalmist evokes beautiful visions of peace and calmness in the first three verses where he reminds readers about a God who is a shepherd, pastures that are green, waters that are still and restoration of the heart.

And then in an abrupt change of tone, he gives us a cold reminder that spiritual valleys are inevitable. An almighty wise God knew that if we only read of beautiful pastures and calm water we would miss out on an inevitable reality. It is a fact that as believers, we will go through hardships. At the same time however, thank God, in our adversity the Holy Spirit reminded us that God personally was with us. Having God’s assurance and comfort that He is with us no matter what is an amazing thought.

Too many people today look for relief from “happy hour” or a toke on a marijuana cigarette. Others pour themselves into their work or hobby – but with Jesus as our shepherd we will get through any valley, no matter how difficult and deep it is.

Thanking our Good Shepherd Today,

Dr. Tim Pollock, Senior Pastor