He Is With Us

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and your staff comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4).

God is with us in the good times and in the bad. We need to remember this no matter where we are.  A lot of times, we think of God being with us in the bad times, and He is, but what about the good times? Do this, picture yourself with Jesus at these times: You’re sitting doing your devotions, look over and “see” Jesus sitting next to you. You’re driving and Jesus is there with you. You’re seated at your dinner table with family or in a restaurant and He’s there too. You’re at work or school and Jesus is in your office or classroom. You’re at a ballgame and He’s in the bleachers sitting next to you. You’re taking a walk in nature and Jesus is there by your side. Can you imagine, “see”, Jesus with you in these places? He’s smiling at you and maybe patting you on the back. Oh, this makes us joyful.

Now, what about the bad times:  When you’re tempted to sin, when you lose your temper and say something you shouldn’t, when you get bad news from a medical test, at the funeral home when a loved one has died or when you’re in trouble? Where is Jesus then? He’s right there. You need to ask for His help, ask for forgiveness and draw near to Him, (James 4:8). Don’t worry, be afraid or discouraged. The devil wants this. “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” (Deuteronomy 32:8), Bad things are going to happen to us but God is with us! “In this world you will have trouble but, take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). The creator of everything is personally with you, be joyful and at peace. Now, look over to your right or left and also “see” Jesus sitting with you! He’s here in church with us for sure. “He inhabits the praises of His people”. (Psalm 22:3).