July 28: God’s Presence in Life’s Darkest Moments

Theme:  Comforted in the Valley

Mitzie Williams,
Maranatha SDA Church

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23:4

There are moments in life when darkness seems to surround us. During these seasons suffering, uncertainty, and pain shake the very foundations of our faith. Yet, as women of God, we are assured that even in our deepest valleys, our Shepherd walks beside us. His presence brings comfort, strength, and hope, allowing us to move forward without fear.

In April 2016, my journey took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. The recommended treatment was chemotherapy and radiotherapy which brought intense physical side effects, most notably severe nerve damage that left me unable to walk properly. The nerves controlling my lower body were badly affected, making standing nearly impossible and causing me to fall without warning. The pain was relentless, and for two years, I could only find rest by lying across the bed.

Like David in Psalm 23:4, I felt as though I was passing through the valley of the shadow of death. Yet, even in my lowest moments, which included an incident where I collapsed in a supermarket and strangers helped me, God’s comforting presence was unmistakable. These experiences led me to reconnect with God and recommit my life to Christ as for a season, I had walked away from my first love.

Reflecting on my journey, I learned three key lessons:

I. Be Patient in Suffering

My painful and a difficult recovery from cervical cancer taught me patience. James 1:3 emphasizes that the trials we face are not meaningless or purposeless. When we endure pain, challenges, or prolonged periods of uncertainty, we are given an opportunity to grow spiritually as we wait on the Lord for deliverance. The "testing of your faith produces perseverance" points to a process where patience is developed as we consistently rely on God, even when circumstances are difficult and we do not understand what He is doing. 

II. The Power of Prayer & God’s Sovereign Protection

Numerous times during my illness, dangers surrounded me, but God reminded me that He “is a present help in time of trouble” Psalm 46:1. On one occasion, I had an accident that if it weren’t for prayer and God’s intervention, I would have died.  I thought I was well enough to drive, but mid journey I lost all sensation in my legs because of the radiotherapy treatment. God graciously intervened and allowed me to end up in a light pole, instead of colliding with oncoming traffic which could have been fatal. Truly, He delivered me from “another valley, the valley of death.” 

III. There is a Promise Greater than My Pain

Romans 8:18 says, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” My journey with cancer and its aftermath taught me the enduring truth of this promise. The pain, loss, and fear I felt were real, but they were temporary and fade in the light of God's eternal purpose for my life. We are reminded that, “He who reads the hearts of men knows their characters better than they themselves know them. He sees that some have powers and susceptibilities that, rightly directed, might be used in the advancement of His work” (DA, p. 440). God allowed my valley experience not to destroy me, but to deepen my faith and prepare me for greater service. The suffering we endure now will one day be replaced by the unmatched joy of living forever in Christ’s presence, a glorious reality worth every trial.

As we journey through life’s hills and valleys, the enemy will seek to distract and discourage us. Remember, God is always near; His rod and His staff bring comfort, guidance, and protection. No trial is wasted when we walk by faith, for our Shepherd uses each challenge to draw us closer to Him and reveal His goodness. We are reminded that “The trials of life are God’s workmen, to remove the impurities, infirmities, and roughness from our characters…”MH. p. 471 as we prepare to inherit the heavenly Canaan.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, with a heart overflowing with gratitude, I magnify Your holy name. Thank You for Your unfailing goodness and mercy. Thank You for saving me, for loving me even in my weakness, and for granting me the privilege to share Your wonders with my sisters. May those who read this devotional feel Your presence in their own valleys. Thank You for being our constant help, for sending Your Son to grant us salvation, and for never leaving us alone. In Jesus' precious name, I pray with thanksgiving. Amen.