After making us lie down in green pastures, Jesus leads us, first in paths of righteousness, and sometimes He leads us into the dark valleys. This is unpleasant, but we know He will lead us through, out to the other side.

In this valley we have the opportunity to die to self, to obey His command, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me.”  To deny self–to give up one’s plans, one’s desired timing—this is to suffer the death of one’s vision—this is painful, but God allows it sometimes and has many reasons for doing do.

Today I experienced this and I know three of His reasons:  to humble me, to give direction, to help  me grow spiritually. It was a good opportunity to offer the sacrifice of thanksgiving, to honor God and open the way that He may show me the salvation of the Lord.  I haven’t seen that yet, but it will come! As it says later in Psalm 23, “…surely goodness and mercy shall follow me….” I will see them at the right time.

To follow Him wherever He leads is a good, godly and in  the en, grand. Guide us, Lord, in embracing whatever you bring, to rejoice in our weakness, knowing that when we are weak, you are strong.

Picture: through the valley of darkness