In the Valley of the Shadow

 

IN THE VALLEY OF THE SHADOW

Why do I keep getting pulled down under?

Why can’t I maintain a sense of wonder?

Where is the joy that I once displayed

At the power of God to raise from the grave?

Is my heart so hard or my sin so big

That I cry like the prodigal mixed with the pigs?

Why do I weep when the sun shines bright

And the birds sing sweet in the morning light?

Why do I feel every tremor of pain

From life in a world that is marked by strain?

 

Is there a friend when I’m sinking down?

Have I done some sin to deserve God’s frown?

Is His arm so short that it cannot save?

Does the Lord not see me in the waves?

Here in the valley lower and lower,

Why does the silence pull me under?

Instead of an answer to my sighs

The God of creation opens my eyes.

The problem is not that I know such pain;

The problem is when I ignore what’s plain.

 

Why does the sun come up each morning?

Why does His kindness keep outpouring?

Why is God here in the darkest night?

As a beacon of hope and steadfast light?

Why do the sparrows fly in number?

Why do the seasons help me remember?

Why do I hurt, yet Your strong arm keeps

And Your strong arm holds,

And Your strong arm seeks?

When I get pulled down, I can see Your heart,

And Your mercy vows it will not depart.

 

You’re here in the dark and in the light;

You’re here in the pit and in the heights;

You’re here in the sea and on the land;

You won’t let go; I’m in Your hand.

Doesn’t the Potter shape the clay?

Doesn’t the Shepherd seek the stray?

Doesn’t the Father give what’s good?

Doesn’t the King deliver you?

How does a Savior heal my soul?

Praise to the God who’s making me whole.