Never Alone

It is with a heavy heart that I write this devotional, and I want everyone who reads this to realize they are never truly alone. The sad reality is that in an effort to contain or slow the spread of the virus, other issues have surged due to isolation and the economic crisis. One statistic that has skyrocketed over the past few months is suicide, especially among our nation’s youth. We need to be constantly reminded that the Lord is always present, even in times of isolation and crisis. How are you really doing? Do you feel as though you are alone? The current situation has reminded me of how important it is to truly know and understand that the Lord has not forsaken us and is ever present, especially in times of need and trials.

We know of Moses’ story in Exodus, and his fall from grace out of Pharaoh’s household. He spent the majority of his life as a shepherd, most likely trying to forget his past and sin. We know from the text that Moses is in his 80’s, but the Lord still had a wonderful plan to use Moses. Moses at this point is probably feeling “washed up” and far from the Lord in this season of life. Yet, the Lord speaks to Moses through the burning bush commanding him to go back to Egypt in order to speak to Pharaoh to let the Hebrew people go. We know from the text that the Lord acknowledges the suffering of His people. “And the Lord said: “I have surely seen the oppression of My people who are in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters, for I know their sorrows.” Exodus 3:7. Even while in captivity the Lord was present and aware of the situation in Egypt. They spent 430 years in captivity according to Exodus 12:40, but even still the Lord had not forsaken His people. I’m sure many of the Hebrew people, only knowing slavery their whole lives, were starting to have a crisis of faith. Perhaps even doubting the stories of their forefathers. In Egypt, the story of Joseph and the deliverance from famine had largely been forgotten, especially by the current Pharaoh (Exodus 1:8). We must endeavor to never forget the works of the Lord and His promises lest our faith diminish.

In Exodus 3, we know that Moses eventually obeys the Lord’s call to return to Egypt, but not before sharing his concerns about his ability and qualifications. But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?” So He said, “I will certainly be with you. And this shall be a sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God on this mountain.” Exodus 3:11-12. The Lord promised Moses that he would never be alone. God himself will be with Moses in the challenges ahead. We know from God’s word that the Lord used Moses to accomplish His will in Egypt with the successful deliverance of the Hebrew people.

Just like Moses, 2000 years ago Christ called His church on mission. That mission is still alive and active today. “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:18-20. Just as the Lord never forsook Moses on his mission, Christ will be with us as we carry out His mission. Maybe you are sitting out there today doubting if Christ is with us today. Maybe you are struggling with the isolation and feeling alone now more than ever. Would you rest in God’s promises today?

In closing, I am encouraged that God has a proven record of faithfulness recorded in Scripture, especially towards His oftentimes unfaithful servants. I think about His promise to His people recorded in Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." We know the turbulent history of God’s people and the cycles of unfaithfulness and rebellion. Yet, God still faithfully cared for his people. Most importantly Christ came to deliver us, and to ensure that all who trust in Him will have everlasting life in His very presence. Not only will we never be alone while we walk the earth, we will never be alone for eternity.