“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.” (Psalm 46:1-3 KJV)
The songwriter set forth this idea, “If ever I loved thee, my Jesus t’is now.” That phrase says it all. It enjoys the presence of God in each present moment. It reminds us that our Lord is a very present help!
Think back a little to that critical moment when, it seemed, you needed him most. We loved him as he saved us. We loved him as he answered our cries for healing, deliverance, and forgiveness. We loved him as he protected us or our loved ones in dangerous events and circumstances.
There are any number of past events and situations in which we were particularly blessed by his grace and strength and power. Yet, if there ever was a time to love Jesus, no matter what the circumstances, it is now.
Now when there is trouble and sorrow. Now when there is peace and comfort. Now when there is health and prosperity. Now when there is illness and weakness. Now when finances are scarce. Now when the bank account is full. Now . . . Now . . . Now . . . Now!
“Oh what joy fills my soul just to know, just to know that his grace is sufficient for me.” Here is another songwriter proclaiming the constant blessings of our Lord’s presence. To the Christian, it is a joy to know that no matter what Jesus “walks with me, and he talks with, and he tells me I am his own.”
2011 will be a great year because we know that Jesus walks with us, talks with us, and his grace is sufficient to sustain us in all circumstances. Praise his holy name!
Dear Father, thank you for your presence and help, Empower us with faith and fortitude to see beyond the immediate circumstances and depend upon your grace. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous now,