In our journey through life, sometimes we encounter detours that slow our pace or lead us down unexpected paths. Those detours can be wonderful—like a wedding—or unwelcome—like sickness. Other times, unexpected tragedy broadsides us, leaving us reeling and wondering where we’ll land.
A friend recently left a comment on my Facebook page that speaks to this. Floyd pointed out from Psalm 23 that even when we’re following the Good Shepherd, the righteous path will sometimes lead us through the valley.
“The Lord … guides me in the paths of righteousness … Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death” (Ps. 23:1, 3-4 NASB).
For those who know the Lord, those words should deliver comfort, not fear. The hard parts of our story don’t surprise our Lord. He leads us, even in the valleys.
Adjusting to Detours
I previously told you about the upcoming release of my new book Big Hurt, Bigger God. Considering the detours our family has faced, my publisher and I agreed to postpone the release from June 9 to October 13. This book is too important not to give it a proper welcome, and my family is too important not to have my full attention.
I’ve also decided to take a few weeks off from blogging. I’ve been hit with a particularly nasty virus and feel God is telling me to chill and put my energy in other places.
Facebook Post
Every time I release a book, our family experiences some form of spiritual warfare. I found this particular pushback rather bizarre! Here is part of a post I put on my Facebook a while back.
“My new book, Big Hurt, Bigger God: Finding Freedom Through Biblical Forgiveness, releases in early June! [now October 13, 2026]
The first photo shows me opening my very first box of books — always exciting.
But when I opened the box, I found something unexpected. Five chapters of my book had been replaced with photos about Hitler and World War II.
Thankfully, only one box was affected. My publisher said, “I’ve worked here seventeen years, and I’ve only seen the printer mess up twice—and both times it happened to one of your books. I’m thinking the devil doesn’t like your books.”
Well, if the enemy hates messages about freedom and forgiveness, maybe that’s all the more reason to share them!”
I hope the books sent to book sellers like Amazon don’t include any of the “special” copies. But if you receive one, contact your book seller, or me, and they will be replaced. If you preordered the book and the new release date creates a problem for you, I have copies available. Please contact me, and we’ll work something out.
If you need the book for a fall group study, please let me know. I can get you copies.
While the delays and detours weren’t part of my plans, none of them took God by surprise. We know God loves us and is still in charge. We appreciate your prayers for my daughter’s upcoming wedding and for all that’s happening in our lives right now. I appreciate you so much. I read your comments and promise to pray for any request you leave.
I leave you with the hope found in Psalm 23.
When God Leads Us Through the Valley: Finding Hope in Psalm 23 #hope, #valleys Share on XThe Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever” (Ps. 23 NLT).
Blessings,
Sometimes I link to these great sites:
#MondayLinkUp #InstaEncouragements, #Let’sHaveCoffee, #SweetTea&Friends
I’m so glad you were open and invited your readers into your world. Times and seasons are more often interrupted than we would wish or want to believe. It nudges us to lean more heavily on the Lord and pause to take his provision. In our ministry calling, we still need to put on our oxygen mask first and those he places in our home are ever a priority. Many prayers and blessings for what you most need today, my friend.
Thank you, Pam. Well said.
Little did I know I was confirming what the Lord had told you! Only God.
Love & Prayers,
Yvonne
Thanks, Yvonne.
It’s obvious your books are hitting a nerve with the enemy!! I am praying you are getting over this virus and feeling much better and that whatever you and your family find yourselves dealing with, you feel God’s comfort, peace and presence.
Ann, thanks so much. We appreciate your prayers, always.
God bless you with good health and safety against the enemy’s attacks. He may buffet, but he doesn’t have the last say! ❤️ G ⚓️
Amen. Thanks so much!
Sending love and prayers and hugs.
Thanks so much, Melissa. God bless.
I have been amazed at the challenges which have occurred in the release of this book. May the Lord keep His hand on you, your family, and the book. He knows and is able to provide what you need at this time.
Thank you, Joanne. His Word offers so much comfort and strength.
I love the 23rd Psalms. It gives me so much comfort. It teaches me that the Lord is with me everywhere. Thanks Debbie.
Me too, Yvonne. It provides strength in all seasons.
I hope you’re feeling better by now. Sounds like a busy summer. It’s wise to take a break in some areas when others need attention. Psalm 23 is such a blessing. VBS this year focused on that psalm at our church.
Thanks, Barbara. I love that Psalm.
Debbie,
I just read your blog post. That is so bizarre about your books. Praying that it got straightened out. And I’m praying for your daughter’s wedding and this detour you’re on. I pray that you will feel Him so close to you right now.
Thanks so much, Jen. I’m glad the Bible addresses the hard parts of life so that we don’t lose hope.
I hope your on the mend now Debbie. I heard a song lyric today that went something like this. …Tell the demons to run and hide at the name of Jesus… sounds to me like their running from your book so you can continue to do the good works the Father prepared in advance for you to do. I can’t wait to read this.
Thanks so much for sharing with Sweet Tea & Friends this month Sweet friend I’m so happy you’re here.
Thank you, Paula! I like those lyrics.
I too pray that by now you are back to normal with no residual symptoms of your illness. You were wise to postpone the release of your book. How compassionate of your publisher to consider your needs! We know that God’s timing is always perfect. It’ll be interesting to see what He has in store for your October book launch!
Thanks, Nancy. I love your attitude, to see what God has in store for the Oct. launch!