Based in the desert of West Texas, Amara Bratcher is a full-time student minister who also writes, takes pictures and volunteers with at-risk children. She has written a book entitled The Bridge That Love Built for adopted kids who have gaps in the early years of their lives. She likes her coffee French Pressed and wears her hair curly 365 days a year. 

Valley Prayer

I would have despaired
unless
I had believed
I would see
the goodness
of the LORD
in the land
of the living.
Psalm 27:13

LORD, I believe, but help my unbelief.
The hinge between despair and hope is my belief in His goodness.

And yes, I believe that one day it will all make sense. One day, I will see how all the brokenness pales in comparison to the eternal weight of glory He is working in me.
But here?
Now?

I have never struggled with His goodness…it’s the location that gives me pause.

The land of the living is where I’ve had the trouble.
It’s where I have been wounded.
It’s where I have encountered men and women who have done harm.

Wait for the LORD;
Be strong and let your heart take courage;
Yes, wait for the LORD.
Psalm 27:14

I will wait - for Him.
I will be strong - in Him.
I will let my heart take refuge - in Him.
Yes, I will wait for Him, for His goodness - here. In the land of the living.


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