“Behold, I am with you and I will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you.” Genesis 28:15 NKJV
For the last two months, I've been preparing for a missions trip to Madagascar. It has been incredible to talk about it with my family and friends, and as you can imagine, people are very curious regarding the details of the trip. Most have been quite supportive — until they ask, "So, how many people are going with you?" When I respond by saying I’m going alone, they usually give me a blank stare. Then, they ask why I would go by myself, and if I’m afraid.
Those are very reasonable questions, and I understand how even with the excitement of the adventure, anyone would be fearful of going into a challenge or an unknown situation. But when I was overcome by fear, I had to ask: am I ever really alone?
As I pondered the answer, I remembered Genesis 28, when God introduced himself to Jacob as Emmanuel, which means, God With Us!
Jacob had no idea what lay ahead of him on his journey. But he did know one thing: God made him a promise to never leave him, to keep him wherever he went, and to bring him back safely. Jacob experienced the peace that comes with being in the presence of God. He knew God as Emmanuel!
Perhaps you're like me, going on a journey into uncharted territory. We may not know what lies ahead of us, but we can go forth in peace, knowing Emmanuel is with us. He will keep us and bring us home safely.
Lord, You are always introducing yourself to us in a different way. You are always just what we need, when we need it! Thank You for Your continual presence in our lives. Thank You for being Emmanuel, God with us. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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