Solitary RefinementNäide

Encountering God in the Valley

Scripture:

“This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him.” – Psalm 91:2 (NLT)

Reflection:

We all cherish mountaintop moments with God—moments which are joyful, powerful, and full of clarity. However, it is in the valley where transformation takes place and where growth occurs. It is in the silence, the disappointment, and the pain where God refines us, not out of punishment but out of purpose. He meets us there, even when we feel alone.

Although losing my job at the church we were attending at the time was incredibly painful and lonely, that day eventually became a kind of living sanctuary for me. Years later, I found myself reflecting on the experience and even saying aloud, “I would go through it again” because of the profound lessons I learned. During the hurt, the pain, and the loneliness, I discovered that He was always with me. He was collecting my tears in a bottle, tenderly present through it all. That experience became a turning point—one He used to shape me into the person I was created to be.

Application:

Spend time reflecting on a valley season in your life. Ask: How did God meet me there? What growth came from that experience? Do not seek to rush out of your current valley; instead, lean into what God might be refining within you.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to see life’s valleys as a sacred space. When I perceive You are silent, remind me that in the wilderness moments You are still working. Refine me for Your glory and draw me closer to Your heart even in the quiet.