“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
They nailed Jesus to a cross, beaten, bleeding, and broken. Darkness fell on the land for three hours. Jesus called out loudly in Hebrew, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” (Mark 15:34). He shouted once more and breathed His last breath.
Jesus was in a valley. He had all the power to change His situation, and yet, He knew there was a greater purpose for the darkest day of His life.
This purpose was not only to give us victory over sin and death, but to give us the power to be triumphant even in our lowest valleys.
There were times in my valleys when I felt how Jesus felt before His last breath. When there seems to be no way out of a situation and God seems far away, I feel abandoned, hopeless, and helpless. For me, anxiety can be a valley moment.
Anxiety attacks our identity in Christ. It strangles every bit of truth about who God says we are. It weighs down our hopes and dreams so they seem unattainable. Anxiety taunts us and prevents us fulfilling our divine assignments. It says, “I see you’re too afraid to do what he has called you to do. No problem, dear. You can stay right here where it’s comfortable; where there aren’t any risks. I will protect you.?”
Unhealthy, fear-based anxiety intimidates our worth and makes us appear disqualified. We must be reminded in those moments of Truth. There is a God who is Lord of lords and King of kings; and we, my friends, no longer have to submit to the spirit of fear and control.
“I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
This scripture directs us during times of difficulty and comforts us in our distress. God is our comforter. His rod is our protection. Even in our darkest valleys, we can be victorious because Jesus is with us. We have no need to fear what we experience in the valley because we are not alone. He is our guard against evil.
What valley are you walking in right now? Maybe it’s depression, loneliness, grief, or hopelessness. Perhaps, like me, it’s your anxious thoughts. Whatever darkness you face, let’s choose to cling to victory and keep our eyes on the Good Shepherd.
Jesus’ death tore down the veil between us and heaven, between us and the Father. May this encourage you today! We have connection to Him whether on the mountain top or in the valley. His love is never ending, never failing, relentless, and perfect. You can overcome any valley because He is with you always.
Prayer:
Lord, you are my shepherd. Thank you for leading and guiding me to still waters and safe pastures. Lord, I thank you that even in my darkest, most anxious moments, you are my comfort and my protection. I pray that you will shut the mouth of the enemy and open my ears to hear the truth you wash over me. I am victorious. I am of a sound mind. I am not forsaken. Help me faith to increase as I continue to follow you Lord, even in your darkest hours. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Written by: Ashley K. Stovall
