Overwhelmed by Depressing Voices

Journey to the Celestial City #38. In our continuing look at John Bunyan’s “Pilgrim’s Progress,” today we find the man, Christian, continuing his treacherous trek through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Having passed by the mouth of Hell (with the help of his weapon: All-Prayer) he now is overwhelmed by “doleful voices.” Their depressing, down-in-the-dumps chorus puts Christian’s mind in a fright along with the rushings to and fro about him. And is that really a “company of fiends” now coming in his direction? The thoughts of turning back again overtake his mind. Nevertheless, the good man presses forward with a shout, “I will walk in the strength of the Lord God.” And could it be that “doleful (depressing) voices” are overwhelming you, too? His strength is perfect, as a contemporary Gospel singer has written. It’s time to lean on the everlasting arms, as another traditional Gospel hymn encourages. “Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him.” (Psalm 42:11ab) “But He knows the way I take; When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10) 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 55