At our home in Oregon, we keep an umbrella by our door because we get such heavy rain from October to April that we can go for days with- out seeing the sun, moon or stars. Although these sources of light may be hidden by the clouds and rain, we know they are still in the heavens. It is harder to find assurance that there is still light when we encounter ‘clouds’ like death, disease, depression and war. It can feel as though God is hiding or ignoring us. Where is the assurance that he is

still there and cares about our problems?

  

When I feel separated from God by the ‘clouds’ of my life, I turn to his promises in the Bible for reassurance. Jesus promises to be with us ‘to the very end of the age’ (Matthew 28:20). The psalmist declares that God ‘who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep’ (Psalm 121:4). And scripture assures us that God’s presence is everywhere.

  

Reading the Bible every day and memorising verses about God’s presence can act as an umbrella in the rain. When clouds of fear appear, we can remember and repeat these biblical promises. Holding on to God’s word can shelter us from fear and help our faith to grow.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for keeping us constantly in your care. Amen