“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:35, 37-39
God is always with us. Throughout scripture, God promises that he will never leave us. A few other well-known passages remind us of this truth. Psalm 23:4 says, “even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Joshua 1:9 tells us, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” The very heart of the message of the birth of Jesus is this promise found in Matthew 1:23 that says Mary will give birth to a son and he shall be called Immanuel which means “God with us.”
The more I grow, study, experience and reflect, the more I know that this truth is the one I can count on the most. I’ve found that I don’t know the answers to many questions that come up in the midst of difficult times. But I am continually reminded, comforted, and encouraged by the promise that God is with us and that we are not alone. Sometimes we may feel that we do not hear or see him at work in our lives. But God has not left us, he is faithful and he is always with us.
I believe that one specific way God demonstrates his continuing presence in the world is that he uses us, his people, to share this love with others. Has there ever been a time when you were discouraged, disappointed, or defeated and you had someone help you up, give a comforting hug, or simply just be with you? Looking back, these are glimpses into God’s continual love and presence for you.
We can all give someone else a snapshot of God’s love and presence at a time when they really need it. Even when you don’t have the answer, an explanation, or even the right words for the situation another person is going through, your presence can and will make a difference. I hope today you will share this truth and promise with others: God is with us.
Amy Givens, Director of Youth Ministries
