Valley Living

He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.

Psalm 23:3b-4a

It is inevitable. We wake up one day and realize we are in the valley of life. Life is like that. Mountains and valleys. Ups and downs. Highs and lows. If you aren’t living in the valley right now, chances are you just came out of one or you’re heading into one.

Mountain top experiences are wonderful, but they don’t last. Life and relationships create opportunities to head down the mountain slope and into the valley. 

Once in the midst of valley living, I hiked a trail in Arkansas alone. A few minutes into the hike, I realized how easily I could lose my way. The trail wasn’t always easy to see because of the fallen leaves. I noticed the blue painted rectangles, called blazes, on certain trees marking the trail. The Lord impressed on my heart that following Him was like keeping my eyes on those blazes. Eyes up.

However, keeping my eyes on those blue rectangles caused me to stumble. I also had to look where I was going. Eyes down.

Navigating life in the valley is like that. Watch where you are going, but also keep your eyes on Jesus for guidance on which direction to go next. 

Then, after a time, you realize the trajectory of your steps lead upward, heading up the next mountain. On your way, you step out onto a precipice and you gain a fresh perspective of the path you just walked. The sun shines on your face. You are no longer in the valley’s shadows. You see the tops of the trees and suddenly, it doesn’t feel so dark and threatening. What you just came out of is actually beautiful.

Whether your valley living has involved months of sickness, years of grief, or waiting for the Lord to move or answer, no matter what or how long, keep your eyes on Him. He will guide and protect you from veering off the path.

Know that the valley won’t last forever. You WILL find yourself on that outcropping with the sun shining on your face again. Friend, don’t give up hope.

Johna Clemons