It’s In The Bible. . . Right?
A “valley” means mistake or at least a wrong turn. . . . right??
A “valley” is prolonged moments of pain, sorrow, or suffering that we want a way to escape.
So where did this idea that valley’s are just wrong?
- ++Negative bad experiences.
- ++Not a God-thing.
Proverbs 19:3
The idea that every long-term valley is a result of the consequences of mistakes or wrong turns, whether its ours or others, can lead to come serious problems. . .
1. Spiritual lessons are ignored and avoided.
2. Lack of the development of Godly character.
3. Tendency to make self-centered decisions in order to get self-relief from the agony of a valley.
4. Miss an opportunity to see God’s power or deliverance and healing.
Remember this….
++A miracle needs a mess.
So if a valley doesn’t necessarily mean a mistake or a wrong turn, then what?
It depends.
Short term- No end in sight.
Self-inflicted- Fallen world-inflicted.
God sent- Who knows?
Why do we end up in valleys?
- ++”God sent me here” valley.
“When obedience backfires.”
- “I messed up” valley.
- “Over priced, self-guided” valley.
- “Who knows” valley.
Hidden Valleys
Judges 1:9
Valley of Job
How do we respond?
1. Find out which valley you’re in.
2. Don’t take _short cuts_.
3. Accept the _consequences_.
Hebrews 12:5–8
4. Don’t run away.
1 Peter 4:15
1 Peter 4:19
What can we learn in the valleys?
1. Lessons can be learned.
- Rejoice
James 1:2
- Preserve
James 1:3–4
- Wisdom
2. Even bad things can make us stronger.
2 Corinthians 12:9–10
Psalm 23