But then I will win her back once again. I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her there. I will return her vineyards to her and transform the Valley of Trouble into a gateway of hope. (Hosea 2:14,15)

I remember turning my back on God years ago and searching for other lovers. I remember seeking satisfaction in the arms of the enemy, not realizing the pain I was causing the Lover of my soul. I remember embracing drugs and alcohol. I remember following after strange gods seeking the peace that could only be found in Jesus. When my day of reckoning came, it was too great for me to handle. In my mind the only way out was to die, but I feared an eternity apart from God, had I taken my own life.

All was lost, my mind, my health, my finances. I was homeless and hopeless like the prodigal son, I was eating and sleeping like an animal. Then I remembered my Father’s mercy and His love. I was guided into a desert and lonely place and in that place God spoke to me tenderly and in truth. I was disciplined for my backsliding and chastised for my sins. He did this because He loves me for He says,”those whom I love I discipline.”

All things work together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. If you are in the Valley of Trouble, know that the very valley you are in will lead to a door of Hope that will transform your life and give you a pathway to a future that is for good and not evil. Walk through your valley holding onto the One who will never leave your nor forsake you and you will find that it is He that carries you over the threshold of hope as a husband would carry his bride.

There are matters of the heart that will either make or break a person when they are facing life altering situations. The key to getting to other side of the valley is a repentant heart, a humble spirit and the fruit of endurance. Ask Him for all three if you lack in them and watch your walk in the desert become a garden experience. 

TMMC-The Teaching Ministry of Michael Cannatello