Basically I was thinking about how God causes us to both climb mountains and walk through valleys. Going up the mountains of our lives are the times when we feel God’s presence the most, we are overjoyed and thrilled at every turn. We can’t wait to get to the top, but at the same time we want to enjoy every moment and take in every little sight there is to see. Then after we finally reach the top, we bask in God’s presence as never before. We declare our love for Him and make promises to serve Him forever. I am reminded of this verse from the praise song, “Show me Your Glory:”
I caught a glimpse of Your splendor
In the corner of my eye
The most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen
And it was like a flash of lightning
Reflected off the sky
And I know I’ll never be the same
Show me Your glory
Send down Your presence
I want to see Your face
Show me Your glory
Majesty shines about You
I can’t go on without You, Lord
But there are also many times in our lives when we must walk through “the valley of the shadow of death.” Life is not all pretty views and good times. What do we do when our hearts no longer desire worship, the presence of God seems far, and the spirit is dry? What happens to all those promises we made to God in the good times? Life is not without struggles, that is for sure. And it is in those times that we should remember. Sit in silence and remember when and how God provided in the past. Whether or not one really feels like praying or seeking God, you can always enter into his presence and seek his peace! Think of David, who always turned to God in good times and bad. Just look at the Psalms, they are not all about praising God all the time. In fact, he spent a lot of time complaining and weeping about all that is wrong with the world. Let us also turn to God in good times and bad. Most of all, let us never forget what God has revealed to us on the mountain tops!
