GOD IS PRESENT

Psalm 46:1-3,7

 “God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble. Therefore we will not be afraid though the earth trembles and the mountains topple into the depths of the seas, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with turmoil….The LORD of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.”


I guess it was around the year 1998 when I moved from Lynchburg Virginia where I had attended Liberty University back to Waterloo.  It wasn’t in my plans but at the time I was going through one of the biggest tragedies I have ever experienced in my life.  I had lost everything that a 22 year old guy could lose.  I was depressed.  I had quit my job.  I had given up on life and often thought about ending it.  I had nothing left but to come home.

My dad flew out to Virginia and we loaded up all the things in my apartment and we drove the two day trip back to Waterloo.  Not everyone is fortunate enough to have an earthly father who has always been there when tragedy strikes.  My dad has always been there.  But even in this time although I had my parents I felt completely alone.  In my eyes I lost everything.

It was then that I met a 72 year old pastor who put his arms around me and told me that God was not done with me yet and that God would use my brokenness to reach people with the gospel.  Every time I was with him he would tell me “God is present my friend.  He’s right here with us in this room.  God knows”

Last year on Easter he went home to be with the Lord but that phrase has been with me every day.  God is present.  No matter what you are going through God is present.  You’re in a storm...God is present.  You’re on the mountaintop…God is present.  You are alone….no, God is present.  You feel like you’re in this battle alone…no…God is fighting with you!  He is present.  He is always present and working on your behalf as His child.

Whatever you are going through today I want you to hear this and apply this truth. God is present…He is with you in this moment and every moment.  Hold on to that today.  Repeat it, learn it, and remember it! God is present! He is with you!