Hope in the dark valleys

Hope for many is mere positive thinking, a way to avoid whatever threatens us. The Bible presents hope in a stronger light. True hope is not hiding away from danger; it is God's presence in the middle of it.

Years ago, my neighbour told me about the sadness of the bereavements and other bad things her family had been through that year. She said, "I think God has abandoned me!" Perhaps this is something that you have said or felt when you have found yourself in a dark place?

This valley of shadows can come on us in times of loss, broken relationships, disappointments, and worries about problems in the world. In these times, we can try to feel better by changing our circumstances: our jobs, homes, or relationships. The problem is that whatever we do to change what's outside of us doesn't resolve the hurt on the inside.

King David, an important figure in the Bible, knew a lot about living with constant problems, persecution and threats. In Psalm 23, a popular passage in the Bible, David wrote about whom he put his hope in. God, the Good Shepherd, who watches over everyone who believes in him, even through the dark valley of death. God's presence gives strength and hope.  David wrote many psalms (sacred songs), and in them, David reminds himself (and us) of how faithful God is and that he will never abandon those who have faith in him.  Hope in God meant that, even amidst great sorrow and depression, David never listened to the voice in his head that said, "God has deserted me or doesn't care."

Even if you're going through a very difficult time in life, it doesn't mean He isn't present. Even if the darkness does not lift, "the darkness is not dark to him" (Psalm 139:12). There is always hope. Don't give up; reach out to God in prayer. If you would like someone to pray with you, or help in understanding what the Bible says about why Jesus is so important, contact one of the local churches or send a message through the contact page on this website.