“Even though I walk through the darkest valley” (Psalm 23:4). Yes, valleys can be dark. And valleys can be shadowy. But let’s not overlook the hidden blessings in the valley. In the valley you can experience the blessing of refreshing water. In the valley are rivers and streams and springs and quiet pools. While traveling in the hot summer, your thirst is refreshed by the water in the valley. In the valley you can experience the blessing of quieting surroundings. In the valley

When you and I are facing valleys, we can have confidence that the Good Shepherd will guide us all the way through. “Even though I walk through the darkest valley” (Psalm 23:4). “But, God, why through the valley? I want to ascend to the heights. I want to be climb to the mountain top. I want to press on to higher ground. Why must I travel through the valley?” God says: “Very simply, my child. The easiest way to climb a mountain

David knew the Lord as his Shepherd. Therefore, he lacked nothing. • The Good Shepherd would lead him – make him rest in green pastures and lead him into renewal beside quiet waters. • The Great Shepherd would restore his soul – bring him refreshing or seek his retrieval. • The Chief Shepherd would guide him in paths of righteousness. And when David was walking through a valley, he could affirm, “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil,

One tribe of the early Native Americans had a unique practice of training their young braves. The story is told of one young boy on his thirteenth birthday. After learning hunting, scouting, and fishing skills, he was put to one final test. He was placed in a dense forest to spend the entire night alone. Until then he had never been away from the security of his family or tribe. But on that night, he was blindfolded and taken several miles away. When