Not alone

Read Genesis 21:16-17

When Hagar was forced to leave Abraham’s camp, she wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba, a region roughly 30 miles southwest of Hebron. Hagar, like most suddenly single parents, faced thechallenge of having to survive alone, having to make too little provision cover too many needs, and wondering if Godstill cared.

Perhaps you’re experiencing a time in your life when you feel absolutely alone. Your future is bleak, and you can’t rememberthe last time you really laughed. Your soul is parched, and you don’t know where to turn.

At the risk of sounding like a preacher, may Ioffer a few words of hope?

You need to know that while you feel all alone, you are not alone. God sees you. He hears your weeping. He will care for you and turn your sorrow into dancing. The nights are long, but God will sustain you and restore you. He will see youthrough the barrenness of Beersheba. You will be whole again — and sooner thanyou think.

If you identify with Hagar, take heart. When your life has recovered from this darktime, the strength you will have gained will compensate for those desperately difficult days. In the meantime, I repeat: please know that God has not left youalone. As Hagar lay weeping indespair and the young man lay dying of thirst, God heard their sorrow. He knows that you’re trapped between deep regret andgnawing bitterness. He understands you. And He will never leave you alone.

REFLECT

What reminders has God given you that you arenot alone? Take a moment tothank Him for hearing your cries.

Fear not; you will no longer live in shame. Don’t be afraid; there is nomore disgrace for you ... For the LORD has called you back from grief. — Isaiah 54:4, 6

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