A song that is familiar to most of us and has blessed our hearts begins with the line “Just to walk with Him means everything to me.”How can we really describe walking with Him? To really walk with Him means to abide in Him and allow Him to lead and direct our paths. Even though difficult circumstances come our way, there is great peace when we can affirm that we are walking with Him. The troubles and problems are still there, but He is beside us to lighten our load and lift our burden.

      Walking with Him does not cease the existence of trials nor does it remove the fierce trial, but it does come with a promise. Jesus said in Hebrews 13:5, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Wow! What an awesome promise! As the second line of that song declares, “Just to know He’s near, His hand is leading me”, we have an assurance!

     While recently reading the book entitled “Captivating” by John and Stasi Eldredge, this profound statement spoke volumes to me. “Security is not found in the absence of danger, but in the presence of Jesus.”* This statement was made by a single lady missionary who was working in the country of Columbia in some of the worst prisons imaginable. The country of Columbia itself is well known for the drug cartels, murders and various crimes. She was ministering in one particular all male prison that was especially known for the violence within its walls. Think about it! She became very aware that her utmost need was Jesus. We often pray that the danger be removed, but what we really need is just the presence of Jesus. When He is walking by our side, our fear decreases and our faith increases.

     In the very familiar scripture of Psalm 23:4, we are reminded that, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” I like the portion that says thou art with me. If He is with me, I do not need to allow fear to be present.

Be encouraged to know that He is with you, and just keep walking!

John and Stasi Eldredge, Captivating, (Thomas Nelson, Inc. 2005), 205, 206