One of my pastors frequently used the sermon illustration of a little boy who was frightened by a thunderstorm. His parents repeatedly reassured him that he was safe and God was with him. However, the little guy continued to cry out in fear. At one point, he said to his parents, “I know God is with me, but I really wish he was here with skin on.”
I can relate to this trembling youngster. Knowing God is with me doesn’t always fulfill my desire to feel Him hold my hand and speak into my ear. Fortunately, our loving Father is well aware of our human need for audible affirmation when we are seeking His will and His presence.
As Christians, we know that God sent his beloved Son to earth to take on human flesh and walk among us. Furthermore, He places people in our lives to vocalize His truth and love to us. I’ve been thinking through situations in which God has used people around me to deliver a message that comes straight from Him.
I See You
Many years ago, I attended a new Bible study as a young mother. I entered the meeting room where dozens of women stood in groups hugging, chatting, and laughing. It is a devastating feeling to stand in a crowded room filled with happy, connected people, and feel utterly alone. The welcoming smile and friendly invitation into a circle of strangers can be a poignant reminder from the God Who Sees that we are not alone.
“She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, ‘I have now seen the One who sees me.’” Genesis 16:13
I Forgive You
What a relief it is to receive these words of forgiveness and reconciliation from a dear one I have wronged. When shame clings to me like heavy chains, these words allow me to break free from the anguish of regret. Sometimes it can be difficult to forgive ourselves for wrongdoings. The voice of a friend can be a reminder that God extends forgiveness and grace to us.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
I Have Faith in You
Fear and self-doubt can be powerful barriers when I am trying to determine God’s will for my future. When faced with a decision, it can be challenging to detect whether I am just following my own plans and desires or if I am indeed being obedient to God’s calling. In these instances, God may use the voice of a trusted mentor or friend. Hearing authentic words of confidence and support can mean the difference between my giving up and my stepping out in faith. Conversely, wise counsel may stop me from heading in the wrong direction.
“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
You Are Mine
There are many pressures to fit into today’s world and to prove our worth through beauty, wealth, talent, or popularity. However, there is no more significant place to find my identity than as a beloved child of God. I praise the Lord for those in my life who remind me that it doesn’t matter what I wear, what career I have, or where my children go to school. First and foremost, I am a daughter of Christ. He is mine, and I am His.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” 1 John 3:1a
Dear Lord, thank you for placing human beings in my life to speak Your truth. Help me to be open to hearing what You have to say through loved ones and trusted advisers. Guide me to follow your promptings when you would have me share your words of love with others. Amen.
Comment by Saturday, February 29th for the chance to win a copy of my favorite prayer journal. How have you heard God speaking to you through friends, mentors, or even strangers?
Hi Dear Daughter,
Having spent time with my mom, your GGO, this past week, I saw and heard first-hand that these things you write about pop up in every season of life. Life changes requiring us to transition into new and unfamiliar groups of people is difficult for older people moving into assisted living facilities or being widowed and having to find ways of getting to appointments and shopping and church by yourself when, at age 93, you no longer drive a car. Your dad and I just joined a new church. It’s a challenge for us introverts to introduce ourselves to strangers, learn all these new names, etc. And yes, it’s easier to break into a new “family of God” than any other group of people. It’s so helpful to read about these subjects on your site and then apply them to my life. So, thank you! It helps to know others are dealing with the same things and to be reminded that God is always with us, walking with us every step of the way! Blessings!!
Thanks, Mom. I am learning through my friends who are farther along than I am in this journey of life, that transitions will keep coming at me. I see so much value in forming relationships with those who are ahead of me on the path, as well as those who are walking beside me and those who will be coming behind. Even when it seems daunting to reach out and develop new relationships. <3