As a veil of darkness covers those who walk in a valley, they risk slowly losing sight of their value. With limited vision and waning light, the sojourner gradually believes they have little to contribute or difference to make. While Evil enjoys the process of marginalizing us in times of distress, God restores our outlook and heart as only He can.
The truth about no one cares
Though darkness whispers no one sees or cares, God says, “YES! I know and I care, and right now …. someone needs the benefit of your valley.”
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)
When we walk through shadows, we may see ourselves with little to offer. That attitude keeps us from climbing out of the valley. By believing the lie from the shadows, we prolong days of wrestling. Allowing the light of this single trust from 2 Corinthians to correct our marginalized mindset, we begin to renew our spirit for the climb out.
One reason God comforts us
God comforts us in our valley so we can comfort others in theirs. Christ Jesus gives us our lives value and purpose and hope for what’s to come. Plotting a course guided by this single truth will lead us home.
You may be convinced no one even knows or cares that you’re in a valley. I felt that way a few days after the United States invaded Iraq more than 10 years ago. We were living overseas, and Jeff had left the country before daylight. I felt insecure & vulnerable. All of our co-workers were far away or inaccessible. As I locked the gates and pulled the bars over the front door, I was pretty sure no one would know or care if I just disappeared. It wasn’t true, but it felt true. I wrestled with the idea that I was totally alone … in a city of millions. The sense of it pressed in on my chest like a suitcase packed for home.
God has used that valley moment over and over again to help others when they felt alone, insecure, and vulnerable. Valley cries. I never would’ve chosen it, but it’s been for my good. I know good can come from a valley, and that good helps to redeem it.
How to start using your valley for good
Right now, someone needs the benefit of your valley.
- Begin by reading 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 out loud. It is TRUTH and will bring light.
- Ask God to open your eyes to see someone else in need, instead of just your need.
- Reach out in a small way (prayer, a card, a smile, a gift) and then reach again.
God will use it to redeem your valley too. As we allow God to correct our marginalized outlook with truth, to reveal needs around us that we’ve missed for a while, and to give Him glory through our healing, we’ll move forward on the journey up.
Right now, someone needs the benefit of your valley.
Have you traversed a valley and seen God use it for good? I’d love for you to share in a comment or send me an email through the contact link at the top!
Ah, Julie. A perfect post for me to read right now. I really love what you have said. This year has been one of difficulties, starting with my father’s death in January. I have felt like I am indeed walking in a valley. Sometimes it is hard to see the way – but always, I have known that I am not walking alone. The Lord is there. But, there are times when I question His purpose. Your words (and the very insightful addition of the verses from 1 Corinthians) have really given me much to ponder. Thank you for that.
I will be more aware of who might *need the benefit of my valley* – for one thing I can testify to is the faithfulness of God, and the settling knowledge of His love.
GOD BLESS!
Sharon, you’ve discovered valuable truths during your valley season. You can share in ways some others may not be able to, because you’ve walked it out first-hand. As you continue to heal from this year and the loss of your dad, I know someone around you can definitely benefit from the fresh understanding and compassion you bring. Yes, God is faithful, and that’s a life changing discovery you can share.
Blessings to you, Julie