Through the Valley: Finding God in Your Darkest Moments

"Yea, 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

DEVO

We all encounter valleys—dark, terrifying seasons where pain, loss, addiction, or uncertainty loom in the deep, dark shadows of our minds. David called it the valley of the shadow of death, not because he was dying, but because everything around him felt lifeless and dangerous. Maybe that’s how you feel now—like hope has dried up and God’s light feels far away. But notice David didn’t say, IF I walk through, but “Though I walk through…” In other words, it’s expected. These valleys are part of life and part of the recovery journey as Satan doesn't want to be forced to abandon his grip on you. It's warfare of the highest spiritual kind.

But also notice this: he walked through. Not into. Not stuck. Not camping out. Through. Which means there’s an exit. And who walks with him? The Lord Himself. He doesn’t just stand on the other side cheering you on—He enters the valley with you. His rod protects. His staff guides. His presence comforts.

In recovery, these dark valleys can show up as deep depression, temptation, isolation, grief, or fear of the future. But even there, Christ is not absent. He is the Shepherd who leads, even when you can’t see the path clearly. And He will lead you out into light again. You are not abandoned in the valley. You are accompanied.

SCRIPTURES FOR MEDITATION:

• Isaiah 43:2 – “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…”

• John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep.”

• 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 – “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair…”

• Romans 8:38-39 – “Nothing…shall be able to separate us from the love of God…”

TODAY'S GOAL:

To recognize that no matter how dark your current “valley” feels, God is with you, for you, and leading you through it. Choose to trust His presence more than your fear.

FOR INTROSPECTION & JOURNALING:

1. What is the darkest valley I’ve walked through in my life so far—and how did God show up?

2. If I am currently in a valley season, what does it feel like?

3. What does it mean to trust God even when I can’t trace Him?

4. How has God comforted or protected me in times of fear?

5. In what ways can I hold onto His promises today instead of my pain?

PRAYER:

Abba Father, You are my Shepherd—even in the valley. Thank You that I never have to walk alone. Even when fear tries to whisper that You’ve left me, remind my heart that You are near. Comfort me with Your rod and Your staff. Give me eyes to see and sense Your presence and faith to follow even in the dark. I trust You to bring me through, because You are faithful and I know You love me. In Jesus’ name, amen.