Valley's Aren't Forever!





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. (Psalm 23: 4). ESV

You’re looking at a picture of Wadi (Ravine, Valley) Qelt- *Running west to east across the Judean Desert in the West Bank, originating near Jerusalem and terminating near Jericho, near the Dead Sea. *Wikipedia

 Some scholars believe this was the location David had in mind as he wrote the 23 Psalm.!

This also was the setting for the story of the Good Samaritan, this region would have been well known and used by our Lord. Interesting enough it was known in our Lords day as the “Way of Blood”, because of the treachery of bandits and presence of dangerous predators.

Valley is a word picture for the difficult experiences of life. We all have had, are having or will have ample time spent in the Valleys! Our Lord knew the Valley!  When Jesus went to Jerusalem for Palm Sunday, he had to take this route from Jericho.  He experienced the way of blood, the valley of the shadow of death.

Because the Shepherd of our souls passed through the valley we don’t need to worry as we approach it…no matter the particular Valley you are facing!

 Are you there now?

I want you to focus on the word “Through” I am so glad that life's Valley's don't endure, they have a season, but do not make up our entire journey!

 In his superb book  on the 23 Psalm, Nashville Pastor Robert J. Morgan wrote:  

“The Valley of the shadow of death comes right in the middle of Psalm 23” He went on to write:

"Valleys don’t go on forever! The road ahead is bright for His children, as bright as the promises of God!" 

 In the following song, Andre Crouch reminds us that what ever Valley were facing, the Lord is with  us, through it all!  

 And while the valley's  won't last forever, the Lord's love does! 

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