As Christians, the visuals of mountain tops and valleys are shorthand for periods of our lives. Mountain tops or mountain top experiences are equated with times when our faith comes easy, or we have an encounter with Jesus that highlights why we believe, or in general, when we feel especially close to God.
Valleys on the other hand, typically are associated with hard, slogging times. Psalm 23 takes about the Valley of the Shadow of Death. In the valley we often are struggling or under intense spiritual warfare.
As I reflected on this today, I am reminded that still waters are found in valleys. Water on a mountain top is flowing – often rapidly. And green pastures are found in valleys. Pastures don’t have a chance to grow and flourish on a mountain top because of weather and runoff.
The restoration of our soul that is promised in the 23rd Psalm, happens in the valley where we are led to still waters and green pastures. In the midst of what seems like a battle is also the joy of the Lord.
Just Sayin' 