August 10

But God, Who comforts and encourages and refreshes and cheers the depressed and the sinking, comforted and encouraged and refreshed and cheered us by the arrival of Titus”. 2 Corinthians 7:6 (AMP)

Have you ever felt alone in the middle of a crowd? An internal isolation that can’t be touched—the sense that no one truly understands. No companion who will stand with you in the wrestle or the struggle; no caring heart to walk with you in the worries and the weight.
 
Those feelings are valid and painful, for we are created for fellowship and belonging, and the desire for connection and being understood is real. Thankfully, wonderfully, gratefully, that very longing has already been met in the One Who is perfect for you! And perfectly present too! God Himself is your constant Companion, surrounding you always in compassion, understanding, and care. He knows the struggle and concerns, the things that weigh you down, the load too heavy to bear, and He would never allow you to navigate that on your own. His kindness is your comfort; His wrap around presence your daily grace.
 
In addition, He sends well-timed help exactly when you need it, found in the sweet fellowship of others, and surprises of joy along life’s way. The shared laughter of a friend. The gentle smile of a stranger. A song that sings the very melody to soothe your weary soul. Sunsets that takes your breath away, making you feel sheltered and safe in the bosom of beauty, so great and so grand.
 
This is the hand of your Beloved, the continual evidence of His loving embrace—the signs and wonders that let you know that Jesus is with you—forever present to lift you up, and to cheer you up when needed too! That’s how much He loves you.
 
Look up, precious one—even now. See the visible manifestations of His nearness; sense the invisible realms of His love, every bit as real, and surrounding you still. You are not alone, nor will you ever be, for He has you in the grip of grace, tucked up close to His heart. This is exactly where He longs for you to be—immersed in His kindness and care. Encouraged and refreshed.
 
This is His gift of limitless and unending love for you, in this day, and in all the days to come!

Prayer:

I confess Lord that I don’t always see Your love or feel Your presence, especially when I let the cares of this world, and the worries of my heart, choke them out.
 
Would you show me today the depth of Your great love? Would You awaken me to the beauty all around—the goodness and the grace You have placed in this day, uniquely and intentionally for me?
 
By faith today—Your faith alive inside of me and my faith in You—I believe and with a grateful heart—I receive.