The valley of Baca (weeping or tears) is part of life.  No one avoids this place.  Being Christians doesn’t exempt us from the experience.  It is common to every man.

    The important thing in these verses, is the way we handle this time of tears.  A Christian may not be exempt from the experience, but every Christian has the chance to transform the experience for the glory of God.

    How can we do this?

    First, we can approach life as a pilgrimage. - a journey with God.  Too many Christians think of salvation in the past tense.  It is something that happened to us in the past.  As a result of that experience in the past, we say we are now saved.  This is true, but it is only part of the truth.  We are also being saved.  The God who began a work when we were born again, is continuing that work day by day.

    Part of God’s work in our lives is to lead us through various experiences designed to shape us to be like Jesus.  Instruction does that.  Worship does that.  Service does that.  Correction does that.  And so does sorrow.  God’s plan is that we will pass through this valley in such a way that we are benefited and others are helped.  So we need to see life as a pilgrimage toward the goal of Christlikeness.  One step at a time, and sometimes through sorrow, God leads His dear children along.  We have come a long way in our journey when we habitually receive whatever comes as from our Father’s hand.

    Second, we can begin to see each experience that comes our way as an opportunity for God’s power and glory to be displayed.  One of the most transforming thoughts we can hold in our minds is that right now, in this experience, God can demonstrate His power and glory to those who are watching us.  As we surrender ourselves under His hand, accepting what comes as from Him with neither complaint nor question, He can begin to work things out in ways we never imagined, so others see Him instead of us.

    Having done these two things, we can transform our tears into a spring. - a well, from which others can drink.  There is much help to be had from someone who has been where we are and come through with joy and faith.  Such people help us.  We can be such people to help others.

    In verse seven, the Psalmist said, “They go from strength to strength.”  That is, those who choose to accept what comes as part of the Father’s plan, and who submit to the working out of that plan, turning the place of tears into a place of refreshment, get stronger and stronger.  The valley of tears is not meant to destroy us.  It is meant to strengthen us and to help others.

    Don’t waste your tears.  Make them a well.  Let God refresh others through you.