The valley skews perspective. The sun rises late and sets early in the valley. It makes things look darker than they are because of the lack of significant direct sunlight. The steep hills hide the threats of life and the hope of rescue. The valley is unsettling on every level. When will the next shoe drop? Is there anyone out there looking for me? It creates a place where what you trust determines if you persevere.

There is hope in the valley because there is forgiveness in the valley. Plain and simple. Whatever it is. Whatever it was. There is forgiveness. Freedom from guilt and freedom to a new life out of the valley. I believe we make the Christian life too complicated. The message too obscure. Here is the good news…while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. That proves God’s love toward us. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are forgiven!

But wouldn't it be better to stay out of the valley of sin? To not get caught up in those things that bring shame, guilt, humiliation and loss?/ I think so too...

Examination leading to confession which is the key to staying out of the ditches in life. A practice easier preached than lived. And quite frankly few will do either.

Salvation is a two-edged sword. Jesus saves us from something, namely sin and death, and to something else, that is abundant life. Through forgiveness we are freed from the guilt and shame and through the power of the Holy Spirit we are freed to life full of the good stuff.

But will we live into it? Are we willing to do the very things that have been given my God to keep us out of the ditches?

1.It starts with humility to admit we need help.

2.It includes the courage of transparency of actions, words, thoughts, and motives.

3.And it ends with true accountability. Not lip service, but true accountability.