As this pandemic drags on, now in its sixth month, we are weary of the masks and restrictions, the social distancing and the loss of fellowship.  Some days we feel we are in the valley and it is dark and scary.  Do not be dismayed or loose faith, for God is always with you! You have a close, personal, and constant relationship with the Almighty – the creator of the entire universe with whom you can speak with, friend to friend!  Think about the powerful words of Psalm 46, verse 1: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. 

God is a help
He is a present help
He is a very present help
He is a very present help in trouble
He is a very present help in trouble.  Therefore I will not fear…

The Bible assures us repeatedly of the real and literal presence of the Lord in and around our lives every day.  In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses told Joshua in the presences of the nation of Israel: “Be strong and of good courage…The Lord, He is the One who goes before you.  He is with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”  This assurance is in the New Testament as well.  In Hebrews 13:5-6 the writer reminds us what God has said, “I will never leave you not forsake you.”  We have God’s own assurance of His presence with us, even in our life’s battles, even in our challenges, even in the valley of the shadow of Covid-19.  We will fear no evil.  He is with us!