July 2, 2023: I Am With You Always!

"... And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20, ESV)

Jesus said, "I am with you always..." These words are Jesus' final encouragement to a group of disciples who followed Him to the end and were now entrusted with the Kingdom of God. He knew what they would soon face. He was aware of the difficulties they would have to overcome. Therefore, He promised them: "I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Those are words of comfort. Sometimes we may be tempted to feel alone and wonder whether God is there and if He may have forgotten us. He wants us assured of the promise of His presence with us. The promise He gives us sustains us. His Spirit in us reminds us we are not alone, never!

The Bible is overflowing with encouragement and assurance that God is always with us. He never wants us to experience life without Him. Psalm 46:1 "...God is a very present help in time of trouble." Isaiah 43:2 "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you." Joshua 1:9 " For the Lord your God is with you where ever you go." We know God as Immanuel, God with us.
    
His promise of His presence to always be with us empowers us to endure and to overcome. Take a few moments to memorize the last part of Matthew 28:20. Behold! Mark these words! Treasure them. "...I am with you always, to the end of the age."