Into the Valley of the Shadow of Death

Journey to the Celestial City #36. In our continuing look at John Bunyan’s “Pilgrim’s Progress,” today we find the man, Christian, having turned a deaf ear to those who would have him go back, he proceeds into the Valley of the Shadow of Death. It is for a very good reason that it is thus named. On the right hand of the valley is a very deep ditch “into which the blind hath led the blind of all ages” to their destruction. And on the left hand of the valley is a very dangerous quag “into which, if even a good man falls, he finds no bottom for his foot to stand on: into this quag King David once did fall.” So Christian is walking a veritable tight rope. The path is “exceeding narrow.” Add to that, it is dark. Christian literally cannot see in front of him or be sure of his next step. And sometimes our lives as followers of Jesus can seem almost impossible to navigate due to danger and darkness. In such instances we’re reminded of our never ceasing and enduring need of our Savior and Guide. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear.” (Psalm 46:1-2a) More to come in the next blog post. Check back soon. (To read this entire blog post series, scroll down to “Pilgrim’s Progress Series” in the left sidebar.) pp 54-55