Saturday Sermonette - He's Still Here.

The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2

Right now I'm not feeling all that strong or full of faith. How can I encourage others when my strength is at low tide?

The nice thing about being a Christian (well, one of the nice things) is that when my faith and strength are weak, God's strength and faith never fails. In fact, the Bible says His strength is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Something else nice: God provides people to hug us. Have I ever mentioned that hugs are therapeutic? I'm not talking about the one-second arm around the shoulder type. I'm talking long, warm, I-care-about-you hugs. My big brother does them pretty well. My daughter and sons and my step-kids are equal to the task as well. A few of my lady friends could give lessons. Those are the healing hugs, the ones I'm really most grateful for.

And then there's God. I don't usually "feel" His hugs, at least not in the same way, but I know He's there. The same way I used to know my husband was in the room even when I couldn't see him. He didn't have to touch me--but I could feel him, somehow. Same thing with God--I recognize His presence.

Like the single line of footprints in the picture above, He's been carrying me. Even if I can't feel His presence, He's there. The waves might wash away the imprints, but He's still there.

Lord, I couldn't do this without You. Thank You for being always here. Amen.