Oct.1-Mark 9:2-“Jesus leadeth them up into a high mountain apart by themselves”
I WANT TO STAY
Lord, “I prefer to stay on this mountain
Where You and I are intimately closed in.”
But God in His Infinite wisdom replies,
“The top is not where I’ll begin.”
“I’ll begin with you in the valley.
I’ll start with daily moments alone.
In the mundane, insignificant rough spots
I will sift and build strong cornerstones.”
Each circumstance seemingly rock heavy
Becomes material for God’s designed plan
His strong arms will break every obstacle
Pulverizing each into finely ground sand.
Sometimes God allows circumstances to flourish.
Using experiences to teach defining walls.
Those rocks become breakers for tidal waves
That Satan connived for your fall.
GOD SAYS, “Let me quench your thirst in life’s valleys.
Keep your eyes steadily focused on Me.
I am God of both mountains and valleys.
I’ll offer strength and nourishment for thee.
So walk on, dear Pilgrim, in life’s valleys
Walk on and climb higher heights with Me
My Presence offers respite in dark valleys.
I conquered valleys when I hung on that tree.”
©Marlene D. Bergman
JOURNAL JOTTINGS: What consists of a valley for you? Journal what you might learn in this valley experience. How might you help someone in his or her valley? Compare the loneliness of your valley with the Valley Jesus walked.
DEAR LORD, Thank you for the willingness YOU had in walking the valley of death for me. In the loneliness of my valleys, help me to remember Ps. 23. You will be with me in all of life’s valleys, even the valley of the shadow of death. Thank you also, for the reminder, that every valley has a mountain and Your peace does not leave or change in valleys. In Jesus’ Name, AMEN