Bible Reading: Isaiah 43:1-3
When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. Isaiah 43:2
Okay: You have three seconds to imagine how you would react if Jesus popped out of thin air and sat down next to you. One. Two. Three.
Talk about it: So what would you say? Would you beg for his autograph? Would you tell him about what happened in your life today?
If Jesus is your closest friend in the world, chances are you would have a lot to share. But maybe you’ve never thought about what Jesus might say to you if he showed up at your dinner table or at the table where you do your homework. You know that he is incredibly interested in a close, personal friendship with you. And considering everything that Jesus said to his followers in the Bible, maybe he would say some of these things to you:
• “You might think I don’t know what it feels like to be an outsider. At times the crowds wanted to crown me king (see John 6:15). But some of the religious leaders hated me. They lurked around me, looking for something they could use to make me look bad—or worse yet, to have me killed (see Matthew 12:14). Doesn’t that tell you I know what it’s like to be hated?”
• “The way I looked didn’t impress people (see Isaiah 53:2). So I know what it’s like to feel average.”
• “When I called twelve disciples and started to preach, my own family didn’t believe in me (see Mark 3:21). So I know what it’s like when people in your family give you a hard time.”
• “I was mocked and made fun of when I did what was right (see Matthew 27:27-44). So I know what it’s like when people around you don’t like you.”
• “I spent forty days and nights in the wilderness with no one else around (see Matthew 4:1-2). So I know what it’s like to be alone.”
You might not have guessed that Jesus knows what loneliness, discouragement, and sadness feel like. But he wants you to know that you aren’t alone.
Your Lord made you. He saved you. You are his chosen, special child. And he is with you whether you feel him nearby or not. Just because you can’t see or touch him doesn’t mean he’s not with you all the time. You can count on his promise. He’s saying, “When you go through deep waters and great troubles, I will be with you.”
TALK: What are some of the tough things you face in life? How does it help you that Christ has promised you won’t go through tough times alone?
PRAY: When we feel alone, Jesus, help us remember that you’re right here with us.
ACT: Make a sign with the words of Isaiah 43:2 and hang it where you can see it!
