Valley Lessons

By: Jenifer Metzger

The Lord is my shepherd;

I have all that I need.

He lets me rest in green meadows;

He leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength.

He guides me along right paths,

bringing honor to His name.

Even when I walk

through the darkest valley,

I will not be afraid,

for You are close beside me.

Your rod and Your staff

protect and comfort me.

You prepare a feast for me

in the presence of my enemies.

You honor me by anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love

will pursue me all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the Lord

forever.

Psalm 23

We've all walked through a valley. Many of us are walking through valleys right now.

Valleys of debt, health crisis, fear, anxiety, grief, broken relationships, loneliness, and much more. We often feel like the valley will go on forever, there is no end in sight. We just want to see a glimmer of hope, something to show us the valley will end.

As you walk through your valley, call upon the Lord. Ask Him to show you what you can learn throughout the valley. Valleys aren't there to destroy us, they are there so we can learn, grow, and glorify God.

Friend, no matter what your valley is, we have the promise of God that He is right there with us. Psalm 23 says, "I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me." He is there. He sees us. Reach out to Him.

Discussion:
1. Are you in a valley right now? You don't have to share details, but we would love to pray for you.
2. How to you keep your eyes fixed on the Lord in the valleys?