His Voice Down the Hallway

I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.     (Philippians 4:12-13)“Nana!  Nana!  Are you there?” my little grandson yelled down the hallway during some quiet playtime.  “I’m here.  You’re ok.  Go ahead and play.  You are fine.”  I replied.  He really was fine, but at that moment he needed reassurance that I had not left, he was not alone, and I was…just down the hallway.  As I prayed this morning I heard myself echo a similar cry, “Father, are you there?  Can You hear me?  I feel alone.  Are You still with me?”Dark and narrow hallways must be walked one step at a time and as I look back on various trials, it is  clear that God has been with me every step of the way.   He has been faithful and I have experienced His strong hand of deliverance over and over again.  Why then, when a new trial comes, do I find myself calling out again for reassurance that God is near?  There is something about sensing God's presence and hearing His voice down the hallway that calms my fears and strengthens me to wait…not just endure…but wait in peace and with great expectation.Paul had learned the secret of contentment in every situation, and his “situations” were far more strenuous than anything I’ve ever encountered!  He seemed to live with the reality of "Christ" always at play and brought  His presence into every moment!   He lived his life with God whether in prison or free, well fed or hungry, in plenty and in want.  Jesus was his strength and his place of residing contentment!  So, as the sun comes up, I am starting the day a little wobbly but also reminded that through Christ, I can do all things.  I can give today to God, be weak, trust hard, and pray.  I can watch for Jesus and listen for the sounds of His voice down the hallway that whisper to me, "I am here.  You're ok.  Go ahead and live your life.  Rest...I am with you."“Father, how I need to hear the sounds of You in my life.  Your presence is everything I need and I’m not sure why I get nervous and lose hold the reality that You will never leave me, but sometimes I do.  Help me today to rest in Your presence and trust in Your love.  Amen.”How about you?Do you need to hear God’s voice down the hallway today?  Do you need reassurance that he is near?Have you learned the secret of being content in all situations?Where do you need Christ’s help and strength today?God is here.  Always!  He will not leave or forsake you.