Upheld at the Valley Gate #4

A View

We have strolled from the Old Gate, around the Broad Wall, the Tower of the Ovens (you can look these up in a study of Nehemiah sometime) and now to the arch of the footprint where we encounter the Valley Gate.

Imagine looking out from this gate over the vast valley below. It seems to stretch on and on. Maybe the sun is baking it and the water appears to be sparse.

Challenges and Fixes

If you are undergoing a time of thirst under a relentless hot sun, you might be brought low—even to the point of despair. The valley of the soul is a difficult place to be.

Where does one turn for resolution?

What kind of preparations do you make to go hiking or adventuring? Perhaps practical things like plotting a course, packing food, and more important, water. Maybe you would consult a map or take a compass so you don’t get lost. More investigation might include a study of the terrain, what kind of critters live there. These are steps to take to start climbing out of a valley.

Consult The Expert

We live in a society of experts. Consulting experts is what we do. Why should we strike out on a journey across the valley without conferring first with the One who knows the way? He has even provided a map (The Bible) for us.

Seek God’s grace for your life’s trials.

Practice His Presence.

Understand how much He cares about where your journey will take you. And that He wants to be your Destination.

The Valley Gate is mere preparation.

Walk through this Gate alongside Him without fear.

For Consideration

Are you wandering in the barren valley? What choices have you made that have taken you away from God? What lessons have you learned from these wanderings? What do you think about Father God as your Destination? Do you know how much He loves you?

“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” I Peter 5:6,7.