Down in the Valley

 "Yea, though I walk through the valley" (Psalms 23:4) are comforting words. But remember to have a valley, there must be more than one mountain, or hill. Maybe you came off one mountain, to reach this valley, or maybe you're passing through the valley to avoid having to climb over the mountain. But the good news is always, there's another hill to climb, another mountain to conquer past the valley. We all love those 'mountain top' experiences, where the view before you is awesome, and you get that 'I'm on top of the world feeling.' Those times are great, but life and growth happen in the valley. Though the valley is full of shadows and can be very dark. It's there you gain the strength to climb the next hill or mountain. It's in the valley, you can eat, and drink, and grow stronger. And even though the valley is dark, and full of shadows, in order for there to be shadows and darkness that means there has to be some light somewhere. Shadows only happen when there's a light source, no matter how weak it is. 

   In the King James and New King James versions the verse starts with a 'Yea.' What a switch in our thinking to think, Yippee, yeah! I'm going through a Valley! Okay, I know that's not how that word is used in that verse, but maybe it should be a yippee, yahoo kind of Yeah! Its I'm gonna go through! Where the road isn't so rocky, and no steep paths to climb. It maybe a little dark, and the road and view not very exciting, but I'm going though, and there's another high point when I'm done! I'm either gonna climb another mountain, and see the beauty, or go through that pass, and get to where I'm going. So it's time to "Yeah!" your valley and keep walking through! 

   You don't need to run either, just walk, you'll make it through. The only thing that's gonna run is your cup running over. But don't forget, that cup is probably on the table in the presence of your enemies. But you'll have an abundance as your cup runs over! 

    Remember Jesus is the good shepherd, leading you through to green pastures, and beside still peaceful waters. He's with you every step of the way. So if your valley feels dark, keep walking. There's a table set before you and another mountain top to see. Keep walking.