Call it positive thinking, denying reality, or living in a dream world; I choose to call it “adjusted perception.”After all, as someone said, “It’s all in how you see it, right?”
Not really.
How I see it helps or hurts, of course. But, what really matters is “how God sees it.”
Valley experiences are actually transitional opportunities to grow and allow my faith to develop. Mountain peaks of success are always preferable to the low places of struggle, and even discouragement. However, as preferable as it may be, nobody has a permanent address there.
The high and exhilarating points are strategically placed in our lives to keep us motivated and looking ahead. But, the “valley” experiences can be just as strategic and even necessary. They are roadways of learning and balance that help us focus on the joys and security of having a right relationship with Jesus.
Years ago, I heard someone say that a valley is merely a roadway between two mountains. That’s a good way to view it. If that’s true, then it’s good to remember a few things:
- Remember your valley experience is temporary.
David acknowledged that even the Valley of the Shadow of Death was temporary when he said: “Yea, though I walk “through” the valley … I will fear no evil.”
- Remember that as you go through the valley, allow the valley to get “through” you.
Come out of it only holding onto the lessons and values learned and achieved. Leave behind any accumulated bitterness and hurt.
- Enjoy the unique scenery.
There will be flowers of patience and streams of grace that you won’t find anywhere else. Only a valley climate will produce certain kinds of growth you won’t even find on a mountain.
- Remember to leave behind a well from which someone else can drink.
I treasure the refreshment I’ve received from others who have traveled through the difficult places before me. I’ve gleaned knowledge from their books, wept while listening to their songs, and learned from their mistakes. I’m thankful they were willing to help me avoid my own self-inflicted wounds, because they let me see theirs. I hope to do the same for others.
- Prepare and rest your spirit for another climb upward.
David said, “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures.” Sometimes God has to do that, you know? We typically won’t do it for ourselves. There’s nothing wrong or sinful about resting. God allowed for a day of rest for all of us and took advantage of it Himself. This competitive and driven society of ours leaves little room for just sitting still in quietness, but it is necessary for the coming journey to the peaks.
- Learn the language.
The valley has a vocabulary all its own and the sooner you learn it, the better you will communicate, and live with less stress. Words like wait, trust, endure, persevere, praise, and patience are like “passports” to the far-flung borders of faith and promise.
Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Isaiah 26:3: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”
7. Follow the leader.
You are not by yourself. You have always had a “valley companion” and He is the best navigator you’ll ever know. He knows where the “greenest” green pastures are, and you can
be assured He knows the path to the still waters. Trust Him and stay in step with Him.
Jesus is as ready for you to get up the mountain as you are, but He will use the valley as the best training ground you’ve ever had. The day you stand on the tip of Mount Victory, your new “point of view” will put the valley in the right perspective.
