Walking with God Through the Valley - Print

Walking with God Through the Valley:
Recovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament

By May Young

An insightful guide that explores the transformative power of biblical lament, offering practical applications for personal and communal spiritual growth.

This book:

• Equips readers to embrace and practice biblical lament in their spiritual journeys.
• Deepens understanding of the role of lament in the Bible.
• Provides practical guidance for incorporating lament into personal prayer and worship.
• Encourages authentic expression of grief and suffering before God.
• Highlights the communal aspects of lament within church settings.
• Offers insights into the theological significance of lament.
• Helps readers navigate personal and collective crises through lament.
• Fosters a deeper relationship with God through honest communication.

Features

• In-depth analysis of lament texts in the Old Testament.
• Practical applications for individuals and church communities.
• Personal reflections and scholarly insights from the author.
• Discussion questions for group study.
• Resources for further exploration of biblical lament.

Paperback, 200pp
1.78 cms H x 21.84 cms L x 14.73 cms W (0.29 kgs)
ISBN 9781514003961
InterVarsity Press (2025)

[Allow 4 weeks]

Description

In Walking with God Through the Valley, Old Testament scholar May Young delves into the often-overlooked practice of biblical lament, revealing its vital role in the spiritual lives of individuals and communities.

Drawing from her extensive research and personal experiences, Young offers a comprehensive guide to understanding and embracing lament as a means of deepening one's relationship with God.

The book begins by examining the presence and purpose of lament in the Old Testament, highlighting how figures like David and Jeremiah used lament to express their deepest sorrows and frustrations while maintaining faith in God's sovereignty.

Young emphasizes that lament is not merely an expression of grief but a profound act of faith, acknowledging the reality of suffering while trusting in God's ultimate goodness.

Young provides practical guidance for incorporating lament into personal prayer life, encouraging readers to bring their honest emotions before God.

She also addresses the communal aspect of lament, offering suggestions for church leaders on how to integrate lament into worship services and community practices, fostering an environment where congregations can collectively navigate times of crisis and sorrow.

Throughout the book, Young shares personal reflections and stories that illustrate the transformative power of lament. Each chapter concludes with discussion questions, making this an ideal resource for small groups and church studies.

Additionally, the book includes resources for further exploration, guiding readers toward a more profound engagement with biblical lament.

Walking with God Through the Valley invites readers to rediscover the purpose of lament, encouraging a faith that is honest, resilient, and deeply connected to God amidst life's challenges.

About the Author

May Young is an Old Testament scholar with a focus on the Psalms and wisdom literature. She holds a PhD in Biblical Studies and has taught at various theological institutions. Young has written extensively on the themes of suffering and lament in the Bible and is passionate about helping individuals and communities engage authentically with Scripture in their spiritual journeys.

Contents

1. Introduction: The Forgotten Practice of Lament
2. Understanding Biblical Lament
3. Lament in the Life of Israel
4. Personal Lament: Bringing Our Sorrows to God
5. Communal Lament: Grieving Together in Faith
6. The Theology of Lament
7. Incorporating Lament into Personal Devotion
8. Lament in Corporate Worship
9. Lament and Hope: Navigating Suffering with Faith
10. Conclusion: Embracing Lament as a Path to Deeper Faith
11. Discussion Questions
12. Resources for Further Study