PSALM 84:5-7

Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.  As they pass through the Valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools.  They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.

Have you ever wept but no tears came?  Have you ever started on the journey of abundant life only to find yourself in the valley: the dry valley of weeping?  Whatever faces you today, know that:

· YOU are not alone

· Happiness awaits you

· Strength comes from the Lord

· You are only passing through the valley not setting up permanent residence

· You are a trigger for something greater.  Your action causes the situation to change: the dry valley of weeping becomes a place of refreshing springs

· You are a catalyst for autumn rains

· The rains ensure the collection of pools of blessings

· You are stronger for passing through this valley

· You are part of the group that will appear before and see the God of Zion (Remember in his presence there is fullness of joy Psalm16:11)

· You will go from strength to strength until you have a personal audience with God

· No good thing will He withhold from you once your walk is blameless (Psalm 24:11)

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT FOR MY VALLEY DWELLERS

Nehemiah . 8:10 “The joy of the Lord is your strength.”

Psalm 100:2 “Come before his presence with singing”

Acts 3:19 “Repent, then & turn to God …that times of refreshing may come from [the presence of] the Lord.

Psalm 119:28 “I am overcome by sorrow; strengthen me as you have promised.”

PRAYER:

Father, times of refreshing comes from you.  Comfort us in times when we are all ‘cried out’, overwhelmed and distressed.  Bring us to the place where our hearts are restored beside the still waters of your peace.