I WILL BE WITH YOU

By: Dennis Harworth

It was during my early grammar school days that it felt like I had a dismal, dark cloud hovering over me.  This was because I was the short, fat kid that always got picked on, bullied, and ridiculed.  One particular day, everything changed.  I can remember like it was yesterday.  The day was a beautiful spring day, with the sun shining brightly in the royal blue sky.  I was afraid to go to school that morning until my big brother said, “Don’t be afraid; I will go with you”.  Because I trusted him, I reluctantly agreed; even though I didn’t know what to really expect.

It was no sooner than my brother and I made our way into the schoolyard that my worst fears were confirmed.  My would-be assailants were waiting for me; shouting their threatening taunts as they approached.  Quickly, my brother, calm and firm, stepped in between.  With a strong commanding voice, he gave them a detailed warning of the unpleasant things that were going to happen to them if they didn’t leave me alone.  With terrified looks, each one turned around and walked away without saying another word.  My fears melted into relief as courage bubbled up within me.  There was a sense of overwhelming peace and safety that wrapped around me like a soft warm blanket.

How much more can we expect to experience divine protection, peace, and courage when God Himself promises, "I will be with you”?  Throughout the Bible, God assures us of His constant presence and encourages us to be fearless; especially when we don’t know what’s ahead.  For example, God called Moses to lead over 2 million people to the Promised Land.  Moses was uncertain of what he was to do and refused to go any further without God’s presence.  He recognized the success and safety of His calling was depended on God being with him.  God comforted Moses by telling him, “My Presence will go with you… (Exodus 33:13-15).

Joshua had no idea what he would be up against to lead all the people across the Jordan into the land God was giving to them.  But the promise of God’s presence gave him the courageous confidence to face overwhelming challenges and to overcome battles with victories that seemed impossible.  God tells Joshua, “No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. For I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will not fail you or abandon you. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:5, 9 NLT).

You do not have to be afraid or discouraged either.  These promises are just as much for you!  Trust God with the assurance that no matter how overwhelming your calling, how big your challenges, or how fierce your battles are – you are not alone!  For Jesus promises you, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20).

God is a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1), and He will be with you to face your future with courage, peace, and protection.  His presence transforms fear into faith, chaos into comfort, and uncertainty into confidence; enabling you to walk boldly and victorious through life.  Therefore, know you can face each day with fearless confidence because God is telling you, I  WILL  BE  WITH  YOU!!