“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” — Isaiah 41:10
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Professional athletes can seem like they have it all going for them with the houses, cars, good-looking significant others, and friends. But it may be surprising to hear that loneliness is not uncommon in these camps. Athletes spend a lot of time on the road or training, and solid relationships can be difficult to cultivate. In fact, the schedule and demands on any athlete at any level can make one feel lonely.
Finding people who will stand by you through thick and thin is important for all of us. We sometimes lose patience and make bad decisions to avoid being alone. But God tells us that in Him, we are never alone (Isaiah 41:10, above). And not only is He by our sides, but he stations angels around who are ready to serve and help us when we need (Hebrews 1:14; Psalm 91:11; Psalm 34:7).
When Moses got ready to go to Heaven, Joshua felt nervous about leading the Israelites without Moses standing beside him, but Moses reassured the young man of God’s presence with him. Therefore, Joshua wouldn’t ever truly be alone as he led the Israelites. “Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, ‘Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged’” (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).
Jesus comforted His disciples when they didn’t understand why He was leaving them and going back to Heaven. For several years, the apostles went almost everywhere together with Jesus, so they doubted their ability to do well without Jesus nearby. But the Lord quieted their fears by promising to send the Holy Spirit:”But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:7). We weren’t created to be alone, and Jesus ensured that we would always have our Helper with us.
As Christians, our road does not need to be so lonesome because we walk with Jesus who gives us everything we need.
— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia
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