“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
The Christian Life Is Not a Straight Path
The Christian life is not a steady climb without difficulty. It is a walk marked by seasons of great joy and seasons of deep testing. Scripture never promises a trouble-free journey, but it does promise the faithful presence of God in every season. From the beginning, believers have learned to follow Christ through both mountain peaks and shadowed valleys.
These changing seasons are not accidents. God uses both to shape, strengthen, and mature His people.
The Peaks: Seasons of Joy and Strength
There are times when the believer walks on high ground. Prayer feels natural, the Word of God speaks with clarity, and worship flows with joy. These are seasons of victory—when sins are overcome, prayers are answered, and fellowship is sweet.
These peaks reveal God’s kindness and power. Yet they are not given merely for enjoyment. They prepare the believer for what lies ahead. In times of strength, faith is built, truth is stored in the heart, and confidence in God grows. The mountaintop equips us to stand when the path descends.
The Valleys: Seasons of Testing and Growth
Every believer will also walk through valleys. These are seasons of hardship, silence, and struggle. Prayers may seem unanswered, emotions may falter, and the way forward may feel unclear. Valleys test what the heart truly believes.
James writes, “The trying of your faith worketh patience” (James 1:3). In the valley, faith is no longer sustained by feeling but by trust. Here, pride is stripped away, dependence on God is learned, and spiritual depth is formed. God often does His greatest work when the believer can do nothing but cling to Him.
God Is Present in Every Season
The defining truth of the Christian life is not the height of the peak or the depth of the valley, but the presence of God. He does not withdraw when circumstances change. On the mountain, He is the source of joy. In the valley, He is the source of comfort and strength.
Paul reminds us that God will finish what He has started (Philippians 1:6). The same Lord who leads us upward also walks beside us downward. Faith is learned by trusting Him in both places.
Walking Forward in Faith
The Christian life moves forward through both peaks and valleys. One reveals God’s power; the other reveals our need. Together, they form Christlike character and steady faith.
Wherever you find yourself today, take courage. The Shepherd is guiding your steps. The journey may change, but His purpose does not. He is leading His people toward eternal life, where every valley will end and joy will remain forever.