“Jesus With Us”
I walked into a very important meeting this morning. I needed to make some big decisions that would affect many people, and I needed God’s help. I had prayed earlier: God, give me knowledge from your word, that will lead to understanding of how you see this situation and then allow that to grow into Your wisdom that can flow through my words and actions. Approaching the meeting, I was overwhelmed by the thought that in that moment, God was WITH me.
I love the word “Immanuel” so much that I wish we didn’t just use it at Christmas time! Just soak in the thought, “God with us.” Jesus is WITH us!
I also love the name of God that carries that same precious promise, “Jehovah Shammah” which is translated to “the Lord is there.” The Lord is where? He is right there, with you, right now!
Another amazing moment of God’s promise of being with us, happened with the disciples of Jesus just as Jesus was leaving the earth to return to His Father.
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ’All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV)
In the moments that followed, Jesus left and returned to Heaven. I am sure that the disciples felt alone, scared and even overwhelmed.
There are times in life when we feel utterly alone, as if no one understands the depth of our pain or the weight of our burdens. In those moments, it’s crucial to remember Jesus' promise: "I am with you always." No matter where we go or what we face, we never have to walk alone.
Jesus isn't just with us in the good times. He is with us in the difficult times, the uncertain times, and the painful times. His presence is a constant source of comfort, peace, and hope. The world may be shaking, but we can rest in the unshakable truth that Jesus is with us every step of the way AND HE promised the disciples that in leaving, He would send His Holy Spirit to be WITH us!
friend, when you feel overwhelmed today, remind yourself of the presence of Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Take a moment to pause and acknowledge that He is right there beside you, strengthening you with His love and peace.
friend, the same God who parted the Red Sea for the Israelites, accompanied David onto the battlefield to face Goliath, delivered Daniel from the lion’s den, and brought Jesus back to life is WITH you right now! Anything the world can throw at you is nothing in the face of the God who loves you and is with you.
“Jesus, thank You for being with me always. I am so grateful that I am never alone, no matter what I face. Help me to remember Your presence today and find comfort in knowing You are with me. Amen.”
Never forget my friend…
you are a miracle!
