I used to have a bad habit; I used to allow the weather dictate my mood and the tone of my day. You know those overcast mornings when it is a tad gloomy with the rain? When the sun rises without its usual confident display – silent and almost surreptitious? When everything felt a little sedate; the traffic crawled, even the birds seemed to sing in a minor key? When it felt as if the rest of the day would be just as mundane and slow…?
I wonder how frequently we all do that in our lives too. How often do we allow a slight rainy setback to slow us down and we lose that bounce in our step.
Do we allow a less than perfect situation in the a.m. sets the tone for the rest of our day and steal our song?
I know that I still occasional allow that and I have to consciously remind myself that God is with me in all situations – even in the storm.
I have to ask myself, “if Jesus stays in the boat with me during a violent thunderstorm, then wouldn’t He still be next to me as I plod through a dreary drizzle?”
Of course He would. I know for certain because God promised, “He would never leave me nor forsake me” – Deuteronomy 31:6. I know with confidence because the Holy Spirit, my helper, is within me to comfort and counsel me – so you see, I’m never, ever, alone and neither are you.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
I think it is important to remember this big promise that God made to us, especially this early in the year.
We have to make conscious efforts to remind ourselves that any setback, disappointment or loss in January does not mean it will be a year full of setbacks, disappointments or losses.
We must remember that through any and every circumstance, God is with us, strengthening us, helping us and upholding us. We do not have to fear because we are never alone. We do NOT have to walk through any trouble alone.
Even through the dark valleys, His shadow will cover us and through the storms, God shelters us. God’s promise to never leave or forsake us does not come with a clause. It is fixed, eternal and enduring.
If we are ever feeling alone or forsaken by God, we are buying into the lie of the enemy. Our Father never abandons His children – not through hard times and not even in death. All we need to do is open our heart and look past our disappointments, grief and every other emotion and see that Jesus, our Comforter is within.
James 4:8 says, “Come near to God and He will come near to you” – it really is as simple as that!
It really is as simple as sitting still in the quiet amidst your setbacks and saying “Lord I need you, come closer to me.” God will meet you wherever you are – even in your broken mess.
Today, wherever you are, whatever your storm may be, will you remember that?
Say it out loud with me: “I am not alone. I will be strong and courageous. My God will NEVER leave me or forsake me. He will strengthen me, He will help me, He will uphold me with His righteous right hand. Jesus is walking through this with me right now. I am not alone.”
It may still be raining and may not cease for a while, but the rain will eventually take its leave. God never will.
Ponder:
What are you facing alone today that you should surrender to God? In what situation will you allow God to take over so you do not have to walk through it alone?
Suzane Avadiar is a writer, blogger and avid traveller. Over the last 17 years, she has written extensively for various publications in the global marketplace. Writing is not only her passion but also her instrument of worship. She has a deep desire to reveal the Father’s heart through her writings, so that every reader steps into their God-given identity. Suzane also writes daily devotions on social media for her church, Destiny C3 Subang. She recently completed her first book, Sent To Journey – Devotions for the Traveller, and is pursuing publishing opportunities. She can be reached through her blog at www.suzaneavadiar.com or on her Facebook page.
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Suzane Avadiar
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