Situated within the Mojave
Desert in eastern California is the lowest, driest and hottest location in North
America.
On July 10, 1913, the highest reported temperature in
the Western Hemisphere, 134 degrees Fahrenheit, was reported at Furnace Creek in
Death Valley-a reading two degrees short of the world record. With a basin 282
feet below sea level and walled by steep mountain ranges, the dry air and sparse
plant cover allows the sun to heat the surface to unbearable temperatures.
Annual precipitation averages only 2.36 inches a year.
Life’s valleys can be just as hot and dry. I’ve walked
through a few I don’t care to repeat. My emotions were scorched and my physical
energy drained. David was familiar with valley walking. He led his sheep through
valleys frequented by robbers and wild animals, but he didn’t fear because his
shepherd protected him. Yea, "though
I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou
art with me"
(Psalm 23:4 KJV).
We all periodically walk through valleys. Our world
groans under the curse of sin which brings damaging effects on people and the
natural order. People do despicable things and nature acts in devastating ways.
Others can put us in the valley or we can do it ourselves through disobedience.
And valleys are painful, but they don’t last forever. At some point-either
through confession or the natural progression of events, we walk out and up to
the mountaintop.
Valley walking is more easily endured by remembering
God walks with us through them. We have no reason to fear. He’ll protect and
comfort us no matter how dark, hot or long the valley. Put your trust in God
when you’re in the valleys. Drink from his Word, trust his Spirit’s guidance and
lean on good friends.
Prayer: Merciful Shepherd, we trust ourselves to Your
care when we’re in the valleys.
Martin Wiles
mandmwiles@yahoo.com
Hodges, South Carolina, USA
www.lovelinesfromgod.com
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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