Even in the Valley

2 July 2020

In the Bible, valleys have been used as metaphorical references to periods of suffering and tribulations in life. One of the best-known references to valleys is in Psalm 23, where David wrote of walking through the “darkest valley” (traditionally translated as the “valley of the shadow of death”) and facing threats from enemies and evil. However, even then, the Lord was with David. In that perilous environment, the Lord did not forsake him. Instead, as a shepherd leading his sheep, the Lord’s rod and staff provided protection, guidance and comfort, even in the valley.

In our lives, we will stumble into dark and uncharted valleys, be they mental, physical, emotional or spiritual. We will face personal problems of various types and dimensions. We will suffer affliction and sorrow. We will experience darkness and brokenness. As we peer helplessly into the bleakness ahead, we may be engulfed by fear or overcome with despair. Ever so often, we rely on our own strength, intellect and resources in futile attempts to lift ourselves out of the valley.

“Even in the Valley” reminds us that though we may fall into life’s deep and dark valleys, we can find solace because no valley can separate us from the love of God. We find strength because He is ever and always with us. We find hope because the valley is not our final destination. With the Lord as our shepherd, we will get through these valleys. We will, one day, dwell with Him where there is no suffering, death or pain, and we will finally see His glorious face! So today, even when we find ourselves in life’s valleys, may we resolve to worship Him, wait on Him and follow Him.

“Even In The Valley” was written and produced during the circuit breaker period in Singapore. For many, the global coronavirus pandemic has been an uncertain valley of unprecedented proportions.

The translated Chinese version, “就算身在幽谷”, was launched at Queenstown Chinese Methodist Church’s online service on 24 May 2020 (Aldersgate Sunday). The original English version was produced and launched shortly thereafter.

EVEN IN THE VALLEY

Verse 1

Into the valley I stumble,

Afflicted I am, in every way.

Engulfed by fear, my courage crumbles,

O Lord—my only strength this day.

Verse 2

Here in the valley I’m broken,

Defenceless I am, no end in sight.

I toil in vain, my spirit shaken,

O Lord—my only hope this night.

Refrain