Looking for Victory in the Valley (Part 2 of 4)
By Justin Pratt,
Clear Springs Baptist Church Senior Pastor
Deep within the landscape of our spiritual journeys lies a treacherous terrain known as the Valley of Discouragement. It is a desolate and daunting place, where the shadows of doubt and fear can seem to stretch on endlessly. In the Valley of Discouragement, dreams can be dashed, hopes may fade, and the weary traveler may be tempted to surrender to the darkness. These valleys represent some of the lowest points in our lives.
David and his band of soldiers faced a harsh reality when they returned to Ziklag. They found their city had been raided, their families taken, and all that remained were the smoking ruins of what once was. Frustrated and exasperated, his once-loyal army, who had supported him, began discussing the possibility of stoning him for the tragedy that had befallen them. In this struggle and difficult situation, David had to make a decision: Should he succumb to his discouragement, or should he take the necessary steps to seek victory in the valley?
David began his ascent from the valley by “encouraging himself in the Lord.” Even though he was left alone to gaze at the smoking ashes of the Valley of Ziklag, he was able to reflect on his past victories and draw strength from the experiences that demonstrated God’s faithfulness. In that moment, one of the most powerful tools David had to overcome his discouragement was his ability to tap into his memories of past victories. He knew that God had helped him then and was confident that He would come through again.
David not only found strength in the Lord, but he also sought wisdom from God. In 1 Samuel 30:8, we find five powerful words: “David enquired at the Lord.” Meaning that amid his struggles, he asked God for direction, clarity and understanding. He shifted his focus from questioning ‘why’ to asking ‘what’ he needed to learn. It’s important to remember that no valley lasts forever. Therefore, as we navigate through difficult times, we should seek to understand what God wants us to learn during these moments.
I love high spiritual experiences, and I believe we all do. However, living by faith is something we learn in the valleys, not on the mountaintops. It’s fascinating how Death Valley in California, known as one of the hottest places in America during the summer, can also produce some of the nation’s most beautiful flowers in the spring. How can a place that is so barren and dry bring forth such beauty? The answer lies in the melting snow from the mountains in spring, which cascades down and saturates the valley. This moisture, combined with the warmth, creates a stunning carpet of flowers in a barren place where nothing usually grows.
God has a unique way of working profoundly in the darkest places. It’s essential for us to listen for His voice and understand what He wants us to learn during our difficult times. Remember, the valley is meant to teach us lessons that the mountains never could.
Valleys are not enjoyable for any of us; however, they hold a profound promise. It is in these valleys that we can discover the depths of God’s presence, the richness of His provisions, and the resilience of our faith. During times of discouragement, we have the opportunity to offer God something in faith that we may not have been able to offer when we were on the mountaintop.
It’s important to remember that, just like David did, if you find yourself walking through a valley, you can strengthen yourself in the Lord and seek His wisdom, as there are valuable lessons to be learned. Lean in, seek God, and see what you can learn during this temporary time. Victory in the valley is possible, and next week we will explore another way David found that victory.
