God is always with us (Part II)

As I was writing last week’s devotional, I saw a lot of parallels to my niece’s skating lessons. It was going to be a very long devotional if I included them, so I thought it best to cover it this week!

Yes, I was helping my niece, Maria, learn how to roller skate last week, and it wasn’t this week in the negative 5 wind chill weather! The first time out with the roller skates on, I held onto Maria the entire time she was skating. She first had to get the hang of rolling on the pavement and then we worked on pushing side to side instead of trying to “walk” in the skates. All the while, I was holding her up, right by her side.

Jesus was with the disciples for three years, right by their side. In Matthew 28, though, He leaves their side, commands them to move forward, but promises to still be with them always.

Matthew 28:19-20    ¹⁹ Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

So, the second day, I left Maria’s side and told her to try to skate from the grass to me (about 3 feet) without me holding her. She was successful, so I kept moving back a foot until she was skating the length of the drive way!

God is always there for us. He gives us instructions and helps us get started. Then, He gives us more challenging situations and responsibilities so that we learn and grow. All the while, He is always there for us.

Isaiah 41:13-14        For I am the Lord your God
    who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
    I will help you.
¹⁴ Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob,
    little Israel, do not fear,
for I myself will help you,” declares the Lord,
    your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

How has God been there for you and me in the past?

How does reflecting on this encourage us for the future so we aren’t afraid as we face new challenges?

(There are so many more parallels, so maybe I’ll cover more next time…)