The Valley of Baca
There are moments in our lives when we feel weak. We can be left feeling vulnerable and fearful when going through a season in the wilderness. Many believers today are spiritually experiencing such a journey; one that Psalm 84:6 describes as the “Valley of Baca.” Baca was a valley near Jerusalem during biblical times, but its name means “the place of weeping.” It symbolizes intense pain or suffering that we often experience at one point or another in our lives. But the Word of God says that you can be blessed even when going through this valley! Psalm 84:5&6 says, “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools.”
Did you catch that? WE have a part to play in this! We are blessed when we stop relying on our own strength and start relying on God’s strength instead. Nehemiah 8:10 states that the “joy of the Lord is our strength!” When we set our hearts on pilgrimage, God will use our joyful, faith-filled expectations as a source of supernatural strength. And He doesn’t stop there. He also promises to meet all of our needs, even when circumstances make it seem impossible. When going through the Valley of Baca, the Israelites didn’t have any water coming forth from the land; so God simply brought forth refreshing rain from the sky! He honored their tenacious mindsets and willingness to depend on Him alone. And as a result, they never lacked.
Another promise given to us in this verse is that we will actually get through the valley! It doesn’t say “if” we pass through, but rather “as” we pass through it. The believer is promised that he will not be in the dry valley forever. He will get through it. Refreshing rain will come. “Weeping may endure for night, but joy comes in the morning!” (Psalm 30:5).
Psalm 84:7 further states “They go from strength to strength.” This means that there will be many instances in which a choice to rely on God’s strength will be required, but that we will become increasingly stronger with each and every opportunity. God is promising to build you up!
Although everyone’s “Valley of Baca” may look a little different, the end result can be the same. God desires for you to get through it just as much as you do, and is able to help make the journey easier. As you pass through your desert, take Him at His word and allow Him to turn even your tears into refreshing springs!
MOVE. MEASURE. MARCH.
March On!
Letty Roy
