Listen

Don’t fear, because I am with you; don’t be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand.

Isaiah 41:10

Think

Speaking up and acting in ways that support others is not always easy. It often feels like we are stepping into a spotlight all by ourselves. The outcome is not known, and we can let fear keep us from the good we know we should do and want to do.

But in these moments, we need to be very aware of what is going on. Taking time to notice God standing with us, encouraging and supporting us, empowers us. But this can be a challenge in the moment. We are more aware of our own fear and anxieties than God’s peace and strength, which are present as well.

To tap into God’s presence, we need to know what it feels like, and we need to spend time getting comfortable with it. Throughout his ministry Jesus goes away to pray, to be present to God. Spending time with God in prayer and meditation helps us to know God’s presence when we need it.

Andrew Kellner

Question to Ponder:

How do you know God’s presence in your life? What can you do to know it more?

Pray

God, help me to know your presence when things are good, so I can know it when I need to speak up for others.

Help me to use your strength and to help others well.

Amen.

Go

Go with the strength that comes from God.

Go and speak the words God has given you.