Life’s most difficult seasons are rarely scheduled. Many unwelcome situations involve some sort of loss –  job loss, a spouse or significant other wanting to part ways, a terrible accident, financial strain, the loss of a loved one, a poor health prognosis, or even a misunderstanding with a loved one can send us into a tailspin. What’s worse, the enemy is absolutely merciless and dangerously deceitful. During the dark and difficult moments, the enemy sees an opportunity to exploit every fear and amplify it with an avalanche of dark suggestions. One of his favorite tactics is to convince you that you are forgotten and facing a difficult situation alone. Whether your inclination is to keep your troubles to yourself or to rally support from those around you, stand firm in the knowledge that the Lord is on your side. You are never alone because God is ALWAYS with you. Although trial by fire can be excruciating and arduous, the good news is that we are NEVER alone. God allows us to experience painful situations so that our testimony can bless someone else.

When you feel isolated, desperate, insecure, or hopeless, remind yourself of these truths:

1. God is FOR you – Romans 8:31 says “What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?”
2. Nothing takes God by surprise – Acts 15:18 says “Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.”
3. God understands your frustration – Psalm 34:18 says ” The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
4. God is faithful – 1 Corinthians 1:9 says “God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.”
5. God doesn’t get tired – Isaiah 40:28 says “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.”
6. God hears and answers prayer – Isaiah 65:24 says “I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!”
7. God is always with you – Joshua 1:5 says “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you.”

The loving nature of God, his all-encompassing concern for our spiritual maturity, his intimate knowledge of us as his creation, his desire for us to grow into closer relationship with him, and live a life that surpasses even our own expectations are just a few reasons why we can move forward on our darkest days, knowing that we are loved by The One who will never leave nor forsake us. No matter what comes our way, we can ask God for whatever we need: wisdom, strength, favor, healing, courage, comfort, joy, and peace. We can live courageously, knowing that our Creator has our back! Joshua 1:9 says “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”