Our all-seeing God - Monday moments with God

My Dearest Child.

I know you by name. I know where you are going and why. I know you feel like running away because things hurt so bad, you don't feel like you can bear them. But there is no need to run from the difficulties of your life, for I am here with you in the midst of them. I am El Roi, the God who sees you.

No matter how bad things look, I have a plan already in place for you. Go back; meet your struggles head on and rest in me. You may think you are alone in the wilderness of your struggles, but I am there. I see how life buffets you, causing you to run and hide. I see how you weep, alone in the night, ready to give up and die because you hurt so much inside.

Hold my hand and walk through the difficulties with me. I will bless you and hold you up for I am the God who sees you.

Love,
Jesus

* Based on Hagar's story in Genesis 16:13.

Because of the acts of others, we are often bruised and beaten down, finding ourselves in painful circumstances. We may even feel like running away, but El Roi sees and cares for us. He comes to us, offering to help bear the pain we feel, strengthening us and building us up according to his plan. Hold the hand of the God who sees you as you face the most difficult circumstances of your life today.

Monday Moments with God

We all need affirmations - to know we're loved when we feel unloveable, to know the Lord carries us when we feel too weak to go on, or to feel the strength of his grip when we feel like we're slipping over the edge. These Monday Moments with God are dedicated to a dear friend who is in need of encouragement - to start her week off knowing the Lord will help, comfort and guide her along her way. I pray they will lift you up too.

My Dearest Daughter,

To me you are as beautiful and pure as a wooly, white lamb. As your shepherd, I will provide everything you need. I will protect you when the wolves of life attack and drive the lions away from your resting place. I know that the rushing waters of the streams frighten you , so I will find still pools for you to drink. I will lead you to lush, green pastures where you can eat and be satisfied.

Stay close to me today and follow where I lead you because I am committed to taking good care of you. If you wander too far from my sight, I will follow you and bring you back on my shoulders because you are just as important to me as the other sheep in my care.

Remember that I know you by name and each evening I look for you as you enter into the fold for a time of sweet rest and each morning, I call you out by name. Listen for my voice.

Love,
Jesus, your Shepherd.

Psalm 23:1-3; Matthew 18:11-13; Luke 15:3-7; Isaiah 43:1; John 10:1-16

"The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green pastures. He leads me to calm water. He gives me new strength. He leads me on paths that are right for the good of his name.” Psalm 23:1-3 NCV