As they go through the Valley of Baca they make it a place of springs; the early rain also covers it with pools. Psalm 84:6-7 ESV

In Bible times, it was common for people to go on pilgrimages to worship at the temple of God. This journey was usually undertaken on foot, and passed through desert land, where water was scarce.

The travelers described in Psalm 84 couldn’t carry enough water for the entire journey. By the time they reached the Valley of Baca (also called the Valley of Weeping), they were desperate for water. This may sound relatable because we also pass through Valleys of Weeping and desert in our spiritual travels. Even as we search for water, it may feel as if prayers bounce back and scripture can’t break through. Our routines feel meaningless and we are discouraged.

God knows this. He says in Isaiah 41:  “When the poor and needy search for water and there is none, and their tongues are parched from thirst, then I, the LORD, will answer them. I, the God of Israel, will never abandon them… I will give them fountains of water in the valleys. I will fill the desert with pools of water. Rivers fed by springs will flow across the parched ground.” (Isaiah 41:17-18 NLT)

God assures us that He is present even in the desert, in the Valley of Weeping. “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). “I will be with you always, even unto the end of the world” (Matthew 28:20). Keep going.  You will find pools of water again.

Resource reading: Deuteronomy 31:5-6