I always hear people ask why can’t I be happy all the time? I see them striving to obtain this eternal non-stop bliss party. I was one of them. Life doesn’t work that way! God allows bad things to happen for a reason. Overcoming horrible events and emotions are what shapes, molds, and transforms us. It can shape you into a monster or it can shape you into something beautiful. How you transform is based on your perspective on life and how you handle your emotions. We must fight to ignore negative emotions caused by bad experiences. We must strive to look through a positive lens. Then we will find moments of happiness in stressful times. Then it is easier to hear God. Moments that are filled with light, guide us through the darkest valleys.

A special note to Christians in the valley: The valley is filled with spiritual warfare. It’s very uncomfortable. You might be tempted to turn to sinful habits to help you cope. If you develop a habitual sin, don’t be discouraged or be guilt ridden. If it gets too painful or difficult press more into God. Let the emotions pass through you. You can handle the pain. You can do all things through Christ! Stop any activity you know doesn’t please God, weather it be mental or physical. If you mess up when you are trying to repent, it’s okay, God knows your heart. He will fill in the gaps until you have fully repented. Remember who you are in Christ! The Holy Spirit takes advantage of times like these to shape us to be more like him. He will take extra care of you in the valley, if you let him.

Confession: I have not mastered any of this! I’m more like Paul when he says I do the things I don’t want to do. I dwell on the things I do not want to dwell on. I lack the faith I wish I had. I’ve been traveling through a valley for a couple years. Even though I am stumbling through, God is there. I do see some type of transformation forming. I can’t wait to see the beauty I’ll become. Let the potter do his work! The valley is needed for transformation!  PSALM 23

❤ Shannon