Drawing Closer

Blustery winds ferociously blew the trees. Sitting on the train, waiting for it to leave the station, I was mesmerized as bending branches were pulled by the wind. Powerless, they could not resist or move in any other direction. They had no choice but to bow with the wind, helpless. Sometimes our lives can feel the same way. We are propelled toward a path we do not wish to follow and find ourselves in challenging situations. Trials in our family, peer pressure, exams, or choices about our future can consume us. We might think it is impossible to avoid or resist the direction we are hurtling toward. But there is always hope. God can set us free. God is stronger than all our troubles. In the midst of chaos, He gives calm. He can change our course, transform our mindset, give us courage when we are terrified. In Psalm 139, David recognizes God’s power and omnipresence, and he describes how God is with him in a very personal way. David acknowledges that when we are scared, we may want to flee from trouble, or even from God, but God loves us more than we will ever understand. He wants to rescue us from living fearful, anxious lives. He sent His son, Jesus, to be God with us (Matthew 1:23) and restore the broken aspects of our livesand the brokenness of all creation. Even when we run away from God, He comes after us in never-failing love. He is always with us, inviting us closer to Him, promising to help us even if we struggle to comprehend why. We may not be able to run away from the messiness of life, but we can always reach toward Jesus, arms outstretched to receive His loving embrace. Cindy Lee What feels out of control in your life today? How might Jesus be inviting you to experience His love and peace, even in the midst of this? When you’re feeling overwhelmed, who is a trusted Christian in your life who could listen to you, pray with you, and encourage you? If you need someone to talk to, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? Psalm 139:7 (NIV)

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Psalm 139