February 5, 1999, Friday

When you are lonely is there one that can be gracious

to you as a companion? Where is the counselor that has

all the answers to every problem? How is God's way the

best way of comfort when terrible things happen?

The Psalmist understood what it was like to be lonely,

and many experiences alone reminded him to call on God-

"Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and

afflicted" (Psa 25:16). The Lord was his Companion in a

difficult lonely time. He is always there for us to call.

Paul studied the Sciptures and knew the writings of the

prophet Isaiah. He knew Him as the only One who never

needed a counselor and never needed help with any question.

Paul and Isaiah decided to ask their questions to Him first--

"Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been

His Counselor?" (Rom 11:34). Because He has all the

answers, it is only logical to go to Him first!

Jeremiah's heart was weakened when he had to prophesy of

the terrible events that would happen to Israel. Israel's King

would not stay in their presence any longer for their sin---

"O my Comforter in sorrow, my heart is faint within me"

(Jer 8:18). He lamented for his own people were going to

be destroyed. Jeremiah was comforted with God's grace and

the mercy He would show them in discipline and judgement.

Let us remember who is the God that is always with us. God's

Name is Jehová Shammah. He is the God that is our Companion.

His fellowship is our joy and confidence. He is our Counselor.

When we do not have an answer in difficult times, He gives us

the answer. Jehová Shammah is our Comforter. When we are

suffering, He comforts us with with His reassurance. He gives

more grace according to His promise. Lift your hands to Him

and Praise Him today for the fact that He is the God that

is always with us, our Immanuel!