Through the Darkest Valleys

Call to Prayer

Title: Through the Darkest Valleys

By: Daniel Peter

Date: 25/02/2023

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 NIV

Psalm 23 is a scripture passage that emphasizes the benefits of being led by the Holy Spirit. The Psalmist notes that God leads His children through various paths, including the darkest valley (Psalm 23:4). But what does this mean? And why does God lead us along that path?

The darkest valleys present a path filled with challenges and opposition. Examples of this are the Israelites in the wilderness as a nation and David in the wilderness as an individual. Often, the Holy Spirit leads us through these valleys to fulfill an important ministry within us.

Apostle Peter spoke about this ministry in 1 Peter 1:2, saying that we are “chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood.” In short, the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit helps us obey God.

The word “sanctify” comes from the Greek word “hagiazo” which means to make holy or to purify. Just as gold and silver are purified in fire, God may lead us through difficult situations that are hard for our minds to grasp in order to purify us from the filth of the flesh (Zech. 13:9). This act of His does not make Him less good or kind towards us, but is a demonstration of His love to help us share in His character (Heb. 12:10).

In order for the Holy Spirit to sanctify us, we must yield to His guidance and obey His voice. This requires submission to Him even when it is difficult, not just when it is pleasant. By obeying the voice of the Holy Spirit, we develop what the Bible refers to as the “fruit of the Spirit.”

Prayer Point:

Let’s thank God for His word today. Let’s also ask Him to help us to yield to Him.