There is never a better opportunity for conversation with God, but when you find yourself in “the valley of the shadow of death,” in those moments of desperation and helplessness. Calling out to God in prayer is the best way to demonstrate our need for Him. Valleys should not be the only time we do this; however, valleys have a way of getting our focus back on God away from all the things in life that often distract us.
The Psalmist, David, prayed often when in despair, in trouble, fleeing from his enemies and in praise. The Psalms are heartfelt prayers offered up to God in the psalmist’s need. In Psalm 61:1-4, David’s distress is made know to God with a belief that He will answer:
“Hear my cry, O God; Give heed to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a refuge for me, A tower of strength against the enemy. Let me dwell in Your tent forever; Let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings.”
David was well acquainted with valleys and God is where he directed his need, his pain and his fear. God heard him, just as He hears us. It might feel like our prayers are bouncing off the ceiling, but that’s not true; they go directly to the heart of God who responds based on our need.