Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NKJV)
As I prayed for a friend this morning the above verse came to mind, and the phrase, “with you” became my meditation. I’d been searching for a word of encouragement to share with my friend, and there it was, like a gentle whisper. Two words: With you.
My friend’s son was injured by an IED explosion in Afghanistan this week. She called me after receiving the news, and hour by hour we’ve kept in touch as events unfolded and more information became available. After a couple of harrowing days of waiting, she flies out today to be with him at his bedside in a military hospital. Though so ready to be near him, she is afraid of what she will see when she walks into his room.
“With you” is a comfort on so many levels. As I shared these words with my friend, we marveled at how they express her soul’s longing—just to be with her son, to rush to his side and pour into him every ounce of strength and love a mother’s heart can hold. She is limited by what the military allows, and subject to military timing. And yet Jesus has no such limits. He is with her, and with her son—always.
Faith step: This promise gives my friend courage in her situation. As you spend this morning with Jesus, take courage in the promise that He is with you as well.
