“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm‬ ‭23:4‬ ‭ESV

In this life, we will experience mountains and valleys. No one is immune, and eventually, we will all find ourselves feeling alone in a valley season of life. So today, are you or someone you know stuck in a rut?

Maybe your valley scenario feels something like this. You feel all alone as you walk through this season of life. You look to your left and right, but all you see are unscalable mountains that feel like they are closing in on you with every next step. You look behind you and are immediately reminded of all of your poor choices or the decisions of others that led to your current valley. You look forward, and all you see is darkness. You stand frozen in time, wondering where is the light and where is God in all of this pain?

In the valley, the most dangerous thing we can do is rely on our feelings. It is in these moments that we must remember the truth. And the truth is that God is right there beside you in your pain. No matter how much you feel alone, the truth is that you are not alone! He is not far off. He is not up on the mountain waiting for you to climb out of the valley all by yourself. He is closer than your next breath, and He hears your cry for help.

On our darkest days, we can find comfort in the words of Psalm 107:13-14, “Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and He delivered them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart.”

So today, with God’s help, just keep moving forward one step at a time. Watch and see as He breaks the chains of discouragement and loneliness that are currently holding you captive in the darkness of the valley. Trust that He is good, that He loves you, and that He has not abandoned you!

To read more devotions on overcoming discouragement and loneliness click here.

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About the Author

Nathan Miller is a passionate follower of Jesus who strives to connect, surrender, and partner with Him on a daily basis. He is the founder of OnThe3rdDay, a resource created to help others more fully Live a Life On Mission For Jesus. Nathan is devoted to studying God's word, writing about following Jesus in today's culture, and discipling others who want to do the same.  He is also a husband, father, friend, mentor, ultra-marathon runner, NBA basketball enthusiast, fan of all things tech, and music lover. He lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with his wife and two kids, where they are involved in their local church, North Way Christian Community.