I Will Be With Thee (#215)

Bible version used: KJV

One of the greatest troubles of life is loneliness. To be left alone when a loved one has departed is a grief that one feels almost unable to bear.

And everyone who is ill has his own loneliness. Distress seems to separate you from others. You may be surrounded by relatives and friends who are kind and thoughtful, but still their presence does not help the emptiness of your suffering alone.

You long for someone who can really understand and help to carry your burden. If you are looking for such help, don't search among the children of men. Listen to the voice of Jesus who urgently calls all to come to Him with their burdens. As the Son of God who knows all things, Jesus knows your troubles. But He also knows your trial because He has walked the same weary way.

The author of Hebrews is referring to Jesus when he writes: "For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:15, 16

Ask any person who has spent much time alone what companionship means. The answer will probably be given with a tear in the eye. And if human companionship means much, the companionship of God is both sweeter and stronger.

God has promised to be our constant companion. In our Savior we have a friendship that cannot be broken by even the most dire circumstances. Psalm 27:10 says: ""When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up."

Isaiah 43:2 says: "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee. When thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upone thee."

God never promised us an easy journey. Our way often leads through water and fire. The promise is that we neither drown nor burn, but rather are cleansed and refined in our trials, if God is with us.

Look to God with true faith in Christ and you will hear Him say also in your trials, "I will be with thee."

Here are some additional Scripture passages that speak of God's presence and help: Genesis 28; Deuteronomy 20; 1 Kings 17;Psalms 23, 27, 31, 42, 69; Isaiah 41; Acts 27; Matthew 14.