"Yes, though I walk THROUGH the valley..."

Yes... it is true... we ALL - at one time or another - have a "Valley" or two to walk through. As much as we love those Mountain Top experiences and panoramic views, we will eventually have to travel on and once again make our way through more uncharted territory!

My walk with the Lord has been growing stronger and stronger over the past 15 years. He has guided me through some serious Storms, and led me to many desperately needed Still Waters. He has proved Himself to me over and over... while I am sure I have only proved my need for Him!

Many people are familiar with Psalm 23 - whether they consider themselves Christian or not. The Truth of this passage - and the hope and comfort that it brings - reaches to the very heart of any given trial or tribulation that we find ourselves in. I encourage you study out the life of a Shepherd. Doing so will enrich this passage and breathe new life and understanding.

The thing that the Lord has been reminding me lately - as many around me seem to be going through some Valleys - is that He is the One that guides us through! He promises to walk us THROUGH those Valleys - we are not to camp out there... it is not supposed to be something we settle for! His plans for us are up on those Mountain Tops - but the lessons we learn in the Valleys are invaluable and often times closely related to how much we enjoy the View from the top!

So - if you are finding yourself in the midst of a Valley and feeling alone and scared... let this encourage you! God IS with you... this Valley may not be of His doing - but He is allowing it only because He knows that it will bring about a greater blessing on the other side... up on top! The thing about Valleys is that in the middle of them - things can seem not so bad... but when it is time to climb up on out of it - the going gets tough and we can tire easily and want to give up! However, just when we want to quit... He comes and prepares us a meal - He feeds us whatever it is that we most need at that moment, and then He speaks Love and Encouragement over... and continues to guide us up and out of our circumstances! Psalm 23:6 in the Amplified Bible reads: "Surely or only goodness, mercy, and unfailing love shall follow me all the days of my life, and through the length of my days the house of the Lord [and His presence] shall be my dwelling place."

The Power of Worship and living a life of worship - well - that is another post - but the Lord has been really confirming things to me through songs the past few weeks. I love Ps 23 in the Amplified... and I love how He reminded me of His "Unfailing Love" this week using both song and scripture! May He remind you of that as well!

"You have my heart And I am Yours forever You are my strength God of grace and power And everything You hold in Your hand Still You make time for me I can't understand Praise You God of Earth and sky How beautiful is Your unfailing love Unfailing love And You never change God You remain The Holy One My unfailing love Unfailing love You are my rock The one I hold on to You are my song And I sing for You..." (~Chris Tomlin)

~Karrilee~
www.Karrilee.com