“I Will Never Leave Thee” (God’s Presence in Dark Times)

Twenty-seven years ago, I said goodbye to my father. He had suffered a stroke. I traveled from Portugal to see dad one last time. Did he recognize me? I will never know. My return to Portugal was with a heavy heart. I would never see my father again. My father didn’t leave me by choice, but he was gone. I miss my father.

In life, we all face separation from loved ones. This separation is painful; however, there is One who will never leave us. Our Heavenly Father is always with us. Hebrews 13:5 says: ” Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” God is with us in the good times, and He is with us in dark times. How does His presence affect our lives?

God’s presence gives us contentment in dark times. The tendency in life is to complain about everything. As a result, when things don’t happen the way we want, we become bitter and complain. Our lack of contentment is saying that God is doing a poor job of taking care of us.

Contentment means that we find our joy and happiness in our relationship with our Living Lord. In spite of the tough times, we know that He is right there with us. He will not leave us. He will walk with us through any valley. As the Psalmist says: “I will fear no evil, for thou art with me.”

God’s presence gives us strength in dark times. The Word of God informs us that Our Heavenly Father will never leave us. “So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper. ” (Hebrews 13:6) The dark times in this life weaken us spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. We may feel like quitting. God’s presence gives us the strength to carry on. God told Paul: “For my strength is made perfect in weakness.” (Hebrews 13:6)Our weakness says to God: “I need your strength.” God will respond.

God’s presence gives us courage in dark times. Dark times can bring out the coward in us. We become fearful of people. We are afraid of the future. Fear of failure rules our hearts. Where do we find the courage to move forward. “I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” (Hebrews 13:6) God’s presence and love will cast out the fear that torments us.

Many of our loved ones are no longer with us, but our Heavenly Father will never leave us. He is with us in good times and dark times. Yes, the clouds of darkness may dim our view of God, but He is still with us. May we lean upon Him in the darkest night; so that we may see his presence amid the darkness.