In The Valley
by C. H. Von Bogatzky
I will perform my good word toward you. For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then ye shall pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you and ye shall seek me, and find me; I will turn away your captivity. (Jeremiah 29:10-14)
For the word of the Lord is right. For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast. (Psalm 33:4, 9)
There is a valley where neither sun, moon, nor stars are seen, and in which the Christian has often to travel ; yet in the darkest place of it God is very nigh. This is the valley of extremity. It is into this valley that every soul must go before it can get a hold of Christ. It is here the sinner struggles with Jesus, and says, "I will not let thee go except thou bless me." It is hard work traveling in this valley.
Were it so light a matter to rely on the faithfulness of God in times of distress, what need to give us so many and various promises? If our faith be right, we must also endure, and wait his time with patience, which is certainly not an easy task; since the promise of the Lord not only tarries very often, but sometimes his providence goes contrary to his word, and makes his word seem to fall to the ground; yet then we must remember that these are the very ways and methods of God, which have ever been in the deep, and acted contrary to our expectation. This the corruption of our natures requires; and the wisdom of God ever chooses, first to help us inwardly, by exercising faith, and patience, and so prepares us for a right use of his outward favours. Thus we receive a double blessing at once from his hands.
Who shall pretend to teach him skill,
Or guide the counsels of his will?
His wisdom, like a sea divine,
Flows deep and high beyond our line.
Who shall pretend to teach him skill,
Or guide the counsels of his will?
His wisdom, like a sea divine,
Flows deep and high beyond our line.
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