2021 Daily Devotion - Day 408

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While dropping my son off at Wood Canyon Park in Aliso Viejo for Cross Country practice, I decided to get a run in myself. Running through the canyon was beautiful; there were a lot of friendly people on the trails, I crossed over small bridges, I jumped over small streams, and I enjoyed the shade the large canopy of trees provided above.

Assuming the trail would loop back to the park, I confidently ran. However, as I came out of the trees, I found myself in an unfamiliar neighborhood, nowhere near where I began! As I looked at my watch, not only did I realize Noah would need to be picked up very soon, but my GPS also revealed I was now 5 miles from where I needed to be. I suppose I could have called an Uber, but instead, I went for it. Even though I thought I was finished running for the day, I ran those additional miles as fast as I could so that I could get back to Wood Canyon Park, and my son would not think he had been forgotten.

How often have we felt like Dad has forgotten us? In the midst of our challenges, it can feel like we’re alone. But take heart; no matter what we go through in life, we can be sure our Heavenly Father is running those extra miles to be with us! (No Uber needed.)

Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Pray with me:
Dear Jesus, be with me during those difficult and lonely times. Remind me that You are near and You will never leave me or forsake me. Help me to trust You are there. Be with others who may also need to feel Your presence today. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Pastor Jim Reynen
Pastor of Family & Student Ministries
Mount of Olives Church
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