Written by: Mimi McKinnis
“Why does February feel like one big Tuesday?”
Author/Pastor Todd Stocker has a point. January is over, and our initial 2021 optimism might be starting to fade. Did you know that 80 percent of new year gym memberships drop off by the second week of February? It’s like author JD Robb said:
“Even though February was the shortest month of the year, sometimes it seemed like the longest.”
While the honeymoon phase of a new beginning might be over, in the midst of this winter, there is hope. No matter the season, God is with us. Which brings us to this month’s focus: Beside.
Here’s the thing… on it’s own, the word “beside” is incomplete. It’s not a standalone sentiment, but rather it’s defined as being next to or at the side of something else. Kind of like us! We aren’t standalone humans. Apart from God, we can do nothing (John 15:5). But be encouraged, Turning Pointe family! We’ve been given an amazing gift. Jesus is beside us, never leaving, even in the longest of winters.
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” — Psalm 23:4
This month’s verse reminds us of so many promises. He is before us, leading us through the valley. He is behind us, protecting us every moment. He is beneath our feet, supporting our steps, and beside us with comfort and grace. Before, behind, beneath, beside. And no amount of peaks or valleys can change that.
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 8:38-39
Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
Joshua 1 echoes the same: “...Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Whether this month finds you starting to thrive or just trying to survive, take heart. Do not be afraid. Jesus walked beside Mary when Lazarus died. He walked beside Peter on the water. He walked beside the disciples on the road to Emmaus. How is He walking beside you?