Lonely and Isolated
WE can have people surrounding us during a trial and still feel alone. Why can hardships make us feel so isolated? It makes me think of my experiences now, and I was encouraged by my previous cancer journey. Although amazing people walked beside me—because cancer brings out the best in humanity—there were times when I felt utterly alone. Why? It’s us in the hot seat, facing heartbreak from estranged loved ones, rejection, or loss. It’s the body tied to the table during radiation, laying perfectly still while passing through ominous scan machines. It’s our veins being accessed with the poison of chemo. We have barely the energy to stand as we are throwing up. Yet just as God was with me then, He can be with you where no one else can.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2
The Comfort of “When”
God speaks through His Word in fascinating ways. When reading Isaiah 43:2 today, the word “When” stood out to me. I realized that God put that word in there to remind us: He plans to be with us during our upcoming difficulties, and He is with us in our current struggles. There is no “if” when it comes to problems in life—there is when. We can be confident that we do not have to face them alone. We can trust that God is with us when we walk through the worst of life.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6
He Will Never Leave
How beautiful is Deuteronomy 31:6! God promises never to leave or forsake us, giving us the courage to stand strong in trials. It might get hot, but we won’t be consumed. We may feel like we’re sinking in the waters of trials, troubles, and sorrows, but we will not drown. The mighty God who created the earth and everything in it is with us. We don’t have to be afraid, but we can be strong and courageous—because God is with us and will never leave or forsake us, even in the worst times.
I Will Be With You
Though the water rises,
You won’t be drowned
Though the fire rages
I’ll protect and surround.
You can be strong
Though it’s weakness, you feel
Have good courage
Through you have no zeal.
For I am with you
Though you may not see
Know that you can trust
And rely upon Me.
For trouble comes
To all on the earth
No one’s immune
Even from birth.
Because it’s hard
You may think I’m gone
I'm right by your side
Though the trial is long.
Know that there’s nothing
That can tear me away
I’ve promised to be there
Throughout all of your days.
Give me your cares
Your weakness and sorrow
I’ll give you strength for
All your tomorrows.
2024 Sandy Popp
