In 2003, Cox was leading a normal life and experiencing no health problems. He had a successful law practice, was actively involved in sports such as tennis and golf, and was an avid outdoorsman. He and his wife were empty nesters and now had time to travel. As he was undergoing his annual physical checkup, he noticed the doctor listening more intently to his heartbeat. After several tests, the doctor delivered a shocking diagnosis"""You have a serious heart murmur caused by a defective valve that can only be treated through open heart surgery."

During the next several weeks as he prepared for his surgery, his faith was challenged, and his prayer life shifted into a higher gear.

Days after his surgery, Cox awoke in his dimly lit hospital room, not knowing where he was or why he was in the hospital. As his wife explained to him his situation and condition, he lay back into his bed, and as tears filled his eyes, he thanked God for answered prayers and drifted off to sleep reciting Psalm 23. This experience brought to life verse 4 of the most quoted Psalm and ushered the author safely through his valley of the shadow of death, which in his case was a serious illness.

All human beings will face and endure the difficulties of many sorts and proportions. Ultimately, we will all face physical death. The Christian, by virtue of his or her faith, will not go through these trials alone. God is near and will walk with us through whatever valley we may find ourselves in. It is when we are face to face with the shadow of death that we must deepen our trust in God and find comfort in his presence.

--John H. Cox III

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