God Is With YouSample

Day 2 - Verse 1

When I wrote this song, I had been dealing with an illness for an extended period. Regardless of the circumstance, long battles can wear on anyone’s faith. Drawn-out struggles can feel like holding up a shield and being pummeled with a never-ending barrage of rocks. You know the rocks will never break through the shield, but after a while, your arms tire, your legs weaken, and your strength begins to fail from the constant onslaught. This was the valley I was in, and the song begins here:

When life seems more than you can bear

And troubles come from everywhere

Don’t you know you’re not alone?

Dealing with any situation that goes unresolved for a long time can seem hopeless. But notice the word “seems” in the first part of the verse. This word is necessary to us as believers because we have God’s promise that He will never allow the enemy to heap more on us than we can bear. It may feel like we’re going through the valley alone, but it only seems that way. The truth is that whether we feel it or not, God is right beside us.

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. Psalms 23: 4 (NLT)

Even now, reading this verse renews my hope because I know I’m not alone. God is walking with me, directing my steps along the path He has laid out for me. God has even guided me to correct my course if I’ve strayed too far in the wrong direction.

No trial has overtaken you that is not faced by others. And God is faithful: He will not let you be tried beyond what you are able to bear, but with the trial, will also provide a way out so that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NET)

It is impossible to avoid trouble simply by living our lives. In my case, a chronic illness tested my faith to its breaking point. What are you dealing with? Does it seem hopeless? Do you feel as though you’re completely, utterly alone? Believe me, when I tell you that you’re not alone. You’re never alone because He is always with you. Deuteronomy 31:6 (MSG) gives us this hope.

Be strong. Take courage. Don’t be intimidated. Don’t give them a second thought because God, your God, is striding ahead of you. He’s right there with you. He won’t let you down; he won’t leave you.