December 8, 1998, Tuesday

Will God really be with a person at all times, no

matter what? Will He provide the counsel and advice

that I can rely on no matter what situation I face?

If I am hurt or suffering will He comfort me and give

the consolation that I need to continue?

Paul revealed the secret to have the Lord's presence

with him at all times. It begins with the thoughts--

"In conclusion, my friends, fill your minds with

those things that are good and that deserve praise:

things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely,

and honorable. Put into practice what you learned

and received from me, both from my words and from

my actions. And the God who gives us peace will

be with you" (Phil 4:8-9). God promises His

companionship to those who set their mind on Him.

Isaiah's prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus was born

and He has become our Counselor who brought peace--

"A child is born to us! A son is given to us! And

He will be our ruler. He will be called, "Wonderful

Counselor," "Mighty God," "Eternal Father," "Prince

of Peace." His royal power will continue to grow;

His kingdom will always be at peace. He will rule

as King David's successor, basing His power on right

and justice, from now until the end of time. The Lord

Almighty is determined to do all this" (Isa 9:6-7). Our

Immanuel will counsel His children in righteousness.

Jesus gave His disciples a personal promise about His

companionship. He would not leave them without comfort--

"And I will to pray the Father, and He will give you

another Comforter, that He may be with you for ever, 

[even] the Spirit of truth: whom the world cannot

receive; for it beholds Him not, neither knows Him:

you know Him; for He abides with you, and shall be

in you. I will not leave you desolate: I will come to

you" (John 14:16-18). He will not leave us in trouble,

for He knows us, He Hears us, and comforts us.

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. Jehova 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!