Week 4: God’s Presence in Suffering and Renewal

Theme: Even in our darkest valleys, God is with us, offering comfort, hope, and the promise of restoration. His love sustains us through every trial.

Focus Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ‘Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

Connect: Suffering can make us feel lost and alone, as though we are walking through the darkest valleys with no light in sight. Have you ever experienced a time when pain made it hard to see God’s presence? Sometimes the weight of our struggles can make it difficult to trust that God is near. Yet, even in our lowest moments, scripture assures us that we are never alone.

Engage: Psalm 23 reminds us that even in the valley of the shadow of death, God is with us. God is our shepherd, guiding, comforting, and preparing a table before us. The image of still waters and green pastures reflects God’s desire to give us peace and rest, even during trials. God’s goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives, offering hope that sustains us through every circumstance. This psalm has been a well-worn path for reminding people that God’s love is near us in the peaceful moments and the difficult times of life.

Apply: Take time today to reflect on where you need God’s comfort. Pray through Psalm 23, inviting God to lead you through any valleys you face.