January 3, 2008

 

“And behold, I [Jesus] am with you always, to the end of the age."

 

--Matthew 28:20

 

It seems like people are more lonely than ever today… despite all the ways we now have to communicate with each other.

 

In fact, in a recent study, we learned that the suicide rate among Americans ages 45 through 54 has reached its highest point in at least 25 years. What a tragedy!

 

This is especially startling when we live in a world where we have instant access to each other through email, text messaging, Skype… I mean, we can be connected to people 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

 

Yet the fact remains that many, many people struggle with feelings of loneliness.

 

You know, whenever I’ve faced times of sadness, disappointment, or discouragement in life, it’s always so comforting to know that a friend or family member is there… that they are a phone call, email, or a car ride away.

 

I think this is the reason why God reassures us so many times in the Scripture that He is there as well. In fact, this is His most-mentioned promise. Over and over again in the Bible God tells us, “I am with you,” “I am with you,” “I am with you.”

 

When you accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, a wonderful thing happens. The Holy Spirit begins to live within you… yes, Jesus’ living presence lives within your heart. And because of this, you can never be alone!

 

You can be driving, working, eating, or doing pretty much anything else, and He will always be there for you. In your darkest moments, you can run to Him for comfort… and in your most joyous moments, you can sing His praises for the blessings in your life.

 

I want to encourage you today that as a believer in Jesus Christ… you are not alone. Take full advantage of the fact that you have a wonderful friend who wants to talk to you. He wants to hear your thoughts, your fears, your insecurities, and your secrets. And He wants to guide you every step of the way!

 

When you accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, a wonderful thing happens: Jesus’ living presence begins to live within your heart.