Because You Are ...

BECAUSE YOU ARE Human, you will always have ups and downs in your life experience.  But the promise of My Presence limits how far down you can go.

Dear Jesus,  We have a hard time accepting the downs in our life.  We tend to feel like a failure at such times.  It comforts us to realize this is simply part of being human.  When we are feeling down, it's almost impossible to remember the Joy of Your Presence.  So when You are absent from our emotions, we cling to the promise of Your Presence.

Beloved, I assure you that I can bring much good out of the times in your life when you are sad.  These painful times teach you to depend on Me more fully, as you seek My Face for help and strength. I have blessed you with many joyful experiences as well, but you must not cling to them or try to make them permanent.  Rather, hold them lightly - with open hands - enjoying the beauty of the moment.  Thank Me for what you are experiencing, and your gratitude will increase your Joy.  Be willing to release the pleasures to Me in due time, then move on to the next stage of your journey.

When Sorrow becomes your travel companion, embrace her as a blessing from Me.  If you receive her into your heart, she will bring new depth and richness to your soul.  She can  teach you more about Me - a Man of sorrows, familiar with suffering.  She can also give you hope, based on the promise of My Presence.  Hoping in Me will limit how far down you go to your suffering: it assures you that you will again praise Me for the help of My Presence.  Although this protects you from falling into deep despair, it is not a "quick fix." You and Sorrow may continue to journey together for a while.  Nonetheless, you will discover along the way a new capacity growing within you:  the ability to be sorrowful, yet always rejoicing.

- Jesus

(Dear Jesus / Sarah Young)

Scripture Insight:  Isaiah 53:3, Psalm 42:5 and 2 Corinthians 6:10