A present help in time of need

We really are not alone although sometimes it feels like it. When I read about a "present help in time of need", I am encouraged for myself, my family, my church and my country. We're not alone. Everywhere you go, and all the news you hear, is about how bad things are and how much worse they are going to get. But, you're not alone. You have a "present" help.

The Bible says the Holy Spirit is given to us a "helper"; someone to walk along side of us. The Holy Spirit guide us, gives assurance to us and even pray for us. In fact, His main title is Comforter. If you ever need comforting, Psalm 46:1 is a verse to embrace: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."

What does it mean to have "present help"? It means He'll be right there when you need Him. He'll give you strength when you need it. Guidance when you need it. Wisdom when you need it.

The Bible says light drives away the darkness. God is light (I John 1:5). "If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (I John 1:7).

We're not talking about religion. We're talking about light. About understanding. About a relationship with the Creator of all things; about someone you know you can call on in time of trouble. The main thing we must do, as a nation, as a people, is make sure all is well with our soul. We need the confidence to know we can call and God will listen.

Whatever we face, it's easier with God in our lives. Asking Him to shield our heart and renew our mind is paramount to living without fear of everything happening in this world. The truth is that we cannot remove evil from the world. We know prayers are powerful, but we cannot transform those with hatred in their hearts. We cannot change the horrible mess we are in, but I believe God can.

If ever there was a time to pray, it is now. Chaos and unrest are everywhere and it's easy to be drawn into the confusion of so many conflicting voices. To have present help in time of need, consider memorizing Phillipians 4:5-8 that says, "Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand (He's present). Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your request be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses (passes) all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren (fellow Christians), whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - mediate on these things."

Jesus is the present help. He is the answer to our worries. He is bigger than our troubles. Find rest in His love.