I recently posted the above question on Facebook. When I posted it, I was at a stage where I could see no end to the pain of the deep depressive episode I was experiencing. Unfortunately, it didn't seem like I had much choice, and whether climbing a mountain or going through the valley, I still had a very dark never-ending path to follow. I felt like I was making no progress either way.
I received two good responses that helped me, which are listed below.
"A mountain I can't reach the top. At least I can get to some higher level on a mountain to get a different vantage point. Stuck in a valley limits the view."
"Doesn't matter; it's the journey that carries the importance. It's what it is all about, not what you get when you reach the top or the other side."
I believe Psalm 23 is the best verse to meditate on and memorize if you ever feel like I have. But, as in valleys, there are usually green pastures too. Reaching a green pasture is the time we take to rest in our Lord. So quit trying to achieve making it to a mountain. Instead,
during the valley, let God carry you towards the Mountain.
We may think it never ends, but everything on this Earth ends eventually. Our reward is after this life. We do not focus on the Mountain top; we focus on Jesus and His love for us. We focus on building our relationship with Christ. If you choose the mountain top to climb, the same applies.
You may not be at the top, but you are making progress. The top is there as the valley gets further away, and you get a different perspective. It is about the journey. While we focus on eternity, we need to also focus on our walk and improve our relationship with Christ here on Earth. Don't leave God behind through a valley or climbing a steep mountain. Let Him carry you through it all.
A Psalm of David.
The Lord is my shepherd,
I will not be in need.
He lets me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For the sake of His name.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
Certainly goodness and faithfulness will follow me all the days of my life,
And my dwelling will be in the house of the Lord forever.