Devotional
There’s something profound that happens in our lowest moments – something that prosperity and comfort can never teach us. In the valley of suffering, we discover aspects of Christ’s character and presence that we simply cannot learn on the mountaintop. This isn’t because God loves us less during good times, but because our need for Him becomes most apparent when everything else fails. When life is going well, it’s easy to rely on our own strength, our resources, our plans. But when we’re stripped of these securities, we find ourselves desperately dependent on God – and that’s exactly where He meets us. In those moments when no one else understands, when human comfort falls short, when solutions seem impossible, His presence becomes tangible in ways we never expected. Many people who have walked through deep suffering will tell you about moments when they felt God’s presence so powerfully that it sustained them through what seemed impossible. These aren’t just emotional experiences – they’re encounters with the living God who promises never to leave us or forsake us. The valley isn’t punishment; it’s often preparation. God uses our deepest struggles to reveal Himself to us in ways that will strengthen our faith for years to come. What feels like abandonment may actually be the beginning of the most intimate relationship with Christ you’ve ever experienced.
Bible Verse
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.” – 2 Corinthians 4:8-11
Reflection Question
Can you think of a time when you experienced God’s presence most powerfully during a difficult season, and what did that teach you about His character that you might not have learned otherwise?
Quote
“We never learn the fullness of Christ through blessings, only through sufferings.”
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when I find myself in the valley, help me to look for You there. Open my eyes to see Your presence in ways I’ve never noticed before. Use my struggles to draw me closer to You and to reveal more of who You are. Amen.