Living Changed: Through GriefSample

In the Valley

Grief is exhausting. It doesn’t matter if we’re angry at the world, crying nonstop, or using every ounce of strength we have just to keep it together. Grief takes so much energy that even the simplest tasks can feel impossible. In these moments when we feel most depleted, we can trust that God is still with us and wants to bring us rest.

We were on a family vacation when my dad passed away. In the United States, when you’re out of state, and someone dies, there’s a process you have to go through before you can take them home, so we were stuck on vacation for a few days longer. My husband and brother-in-law came back from fishing one day and wanted to show us the beautiful spot they had found.

I can still remember walking out to the edge of that scenic overlook and seeing the most beautiful valley. There was a stream winding through lush greenery for as far as I could see. I felt God’s presence with me in that place. He gave me peace and comfort as I mourned the loss of my dad.

It reminds me of Psalm 23 that says, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me.”

When I think about what I saw from that scenic overlook, the green meadow and peaceful stream weren’t on the mountaintop. They were in the valley. In the very same place this Psalm tells us not to fear.

No one wants to walk through the valley. No one wants to go through loss. No one wants to experience crushing and overwhelming grief. But when we do, we don’t have to be afraid to face our pain because God promises to be right there with us.

When we feel deflated and withered by our grief, God meets us in the valley and offers us refreshment. He helps us find rest and revives our weary souls. He refills our cup until it’s overflowing. He is faithful to bring us through even the darkest valley.

If you’re feeling worn out by your grief, turn to God. He has never left your side. He’s walking with you through this dark valley, and He’s ready to give you rest whenever you need it.

That doesn’t mean you’ll be done with your grief in an instant. It will continue to come and go, but when you rest in Jesus, He will give you the strength for today. And He’ll do the same for you tomorrow and every day until you realize you’ve made it through the valley. Until then, be willing to sit with Jesus in your pain and lean into Him for the peace that only He can offer.

Jesus, thank you for walking beside me through this heartbreaking loss. Thank you for giving me rest when I’m tired and don’t know how to keep going. Give me your peace. Renew my soul. Help me to sit in your presence and find comfort. Amen.