Scripture

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me.

~Psalm 23:4, LSB

Quote

The pain of sorrow is doubled when endured alone, but greatly lessened with borne by another alongside us.

~Drew Hunter

I found this story while cleaning out some of my old files. It came from Our Daily Bread but I don’t have a date. From the looks of the paper, I would guess it has been in a file folder for quite some time. It the story of a timid prisoner who committed a minor infraction but was sentenced to spend the night is solitary confinement. It was an isolated cell deep in the prison that was light proof. When the door slammed, all light disappeared. It was a form of torture and all the men feared being put in this dark hole. As they lead this poor prisoner down to the dungeon of darkness, he could feel the loathsome air choking him. He was almost in a state of panic when they pushed him into the cell and shut the door. He sank to the floor in despair and then he heard a voice. How could this be, the cell was also sound proof. The voice was real and although he could not see a soul, the voice said softly, “Do not be afraid. I am the prison Chaplin. I knew you could not stand this alone so I came to stay with you. I will be with you until they come for you tomorrow.” Just knowing that he was not alone flooded this poor anxious man’s soul with peace. He breathed a sigh of relief and was able to enjoy some sweet rest.

Valleys can be dark, deep and dangerous but the LORD’s presence can drive away the fear. Our good Shepherd says, “Fear no evil, I AM with you.” You may feel caught in the deep shadows of a dark valley but remember you are passing through. This valley you are in leads to the high country. In other words, the valley is a temporary condition. Yes, dear saint, we are headed for higher ground. Johnson Oatman, Jr. says it well…

I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining every day;
Still praying as I’m onward bound,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay;
Though some may dwell where those abound,
My prayer, my aim, is higher ground.

I want to live above the world,
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;
For faith has caught the joyful sound,
The song of saints on higher ground.

I want to scale the utmost height
And catch a gleam of glory bright;
But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Extra

LORD willing I am off to Point Mallard to help David Mote run his 7 on 7 football camp. David uses preachers so that we can pray with each team during the day. I think I will be running a clock. I hope so! It will probably be hot. David is fighting cancer but it has not slowed him down.

Have a great day and thanks for reading the blog.