Thousands of children experience it every year. So does one out of every two spouses. Parents aren’t supposed to leave their children nor spouses their life partners-but they do.
Growing up, I could count on one hand the peers I knew whose parents left them. Nor did I know many whose parents were divorced. My parents didn’t leave me, and they didn’t leave each other either. But I have been left. By friends who moved away and by great-grandparents, grandparents and one parent who surrendered to death.
Being left is never easy. Moses was Israel’s leader for a number of years. He led them out of Egyptian slavery and through forty years of nomadic desert wandering. But his earthly sojourn was complete, and it was time for someone else to assume command. As he commissioned Joshua, he reminded him and the nation to be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6).
Even though others may leave us, a fulfilling life can still be enjoyed by remembering God never will. He created us in the past, sustains and loves us in the present and will bring us to himself in the future. We are never alone. The continual presence of God’s Spirit gives us power to live with joy, confidence and peace regardless of how difficult our circumstances are. In the good times and in taxing times, God is always near. Joshua faced difficult days ahead as he conquered a land filled with enemies of his people, but he faced each day with enthusiasm knowing God would never leave him. Let God teach you the same.
Prayer: Thank You merciful Lord for being our ever present Comforter whenever we feel helpless, frightened and alone.
good life,good or evil;dan g sparrow
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