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Divine Note #11-04 - Our life through God’s perspective

January 30, 2011
Psalm 23:1-6 (GW)
1 A psalm by David. The LORD is my shepherd. I am never in need.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside peaceful waters.
3 He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name.
4 Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage.
5 You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.
6 Certainly, goodness and mercy will stay close to me all the days of my life, and I will remain in the LORD'S house for days without end.

I was touched by yet another of the sermons of Dr. Charles Stanley, my spiritual “grandfather.” His preaching has helped me mature in my Christian walk. It’s no surprise that I was taken off guard when I had my first valley experience after I rededicated my life to Christ almost five years ago. I'll share my notes from his “The Valley Experiences in our life” sermon. Get his sermon notes at www.InTouch.org.

 
• Valley experiences are inevitable; we’re not always going to be on the mountaintop.
• In some cases, our Shepherd leads us where it hurts – perhaps so we can grow and learn something - v4 Even though I walk through the dark valley of death, because you are with me, I fear no harm. Your rod and your staff give me courage.
• We learn the most about God in the valley, v3 He renews my soul. He guides me along the paths of righteousness for the sake of his name.

Key points:
1. The right response is to make a full surrender to God.

2. Believe that God is using your valley experience for your good. See the possibilities of your life through God’s perspective.
3. Trust God’s purpose: Rest in his wisdom, love and power, v5 You prepare a banquet for me while my enemies watch. You anoint my head with oil. My cup overflows.
4. Thank God for bringing you through the valley.

My valley experiences have matured me (trust me it has been the hardest part of my Christian walk). Trusting God, taking action in the valley and deciding to do something about any issues has taken me to new levels of intimacy with the Lord.



Comments

  1. I love this verses from Psalms too. God clearly shows how He will protect us from our enemies if we believe in Him and surrender our life to Him. We should submit to His sovereign power.

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