"Expect the unexpected" is often a phrase quoted in reality TV game shows. Maybe it's a phrase that could apply to the Bible as well. In today's passage, I noticed something I hadn't seen before: A reference to the Valley of Blessing.
Think about it: The concept of a Valley of Blessing is unexpected. Most of the time, mountains are associated with blessings--not valleys. Kids still play "King of the Mountain." People talk about "peak performances" as synonymous with triumph. In the Bible, Mt. Sinai and Mt. Zion are referred to as places where God dwells. And conversely, valleys are used to describe major lows or disappointments...like "the valley of shadow and death" (Psalm 23).
In this passage, there's a place named the Valley of Blessing. Why?
The Valley of Blessing represents God's unexpected favor and miraculous power in the midst of trial. In the actual valley described in chapter 20, God's people were surrounded by armies from three neighboring countries trying to attack them--it's like being in the midst of a world war with no (visible) allies. Talk about a valley! I'm sure some of the people felt afraid, overwhelmed, or doomed to die. They trusted God anyway. He confused the enemy armies, so they attacked each other--and Judah was saved.
I've talked with some people lately who experienced their own versions of the Valley of Blessing--people who faced stress, trial and overwhelming fear, but were blessed by God and His peace in the midst of a valley.
If you're in a valley at the moment, look for the blessings. God's a big God--He doesn't just reserve blessings for mountaintop moments. He can show up to stand with you in your valley and overwhelm you with His love.
Tomorrow: 2 Chronicles 21-24
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