READ: DEUTERONOMY 31:6; ROMANS 8:28-39; COLOSSIANS 3:12-16

When I was thirteen, my parents divorced. My dad remarried and moved out of state. My mom had to work two jobs to provide for us, so our time together was special, but limited. Eventually, we had to move so Mom could find a better job. Whenever I tried to give my opinions about moving, she cast them aside. And, over the years, we kept moving.

At each new school I attended, I struggled throughout the day. I felt invisible when the other kids passed me on their way to class. Most days, I felt alone. My heart hungered for friendship.

Each time we moved, Mom and I would search for a new church. I always felt special and loved in God’s house.

In my junior year, the musical theater department at my newest school scheduled auditions. I tried out, and the music instructor gave me one of the solo parts. A few classmates made comments saying they didn’t understand how I, the new kid, got a solo. Then, on opening night, I found the sleeves of my costume ripped off and my shoes missing. A few students smirked as I ran to the bathroom to sort out my feelings.

I remembered that Jesus felt abandoned at times—not only by His friends but by His Father too. Jesus cried out on the cross, “Why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46).

As I struggled in my pain, I talked with God about it. I saw that Jesus knew how I felt. God empathizes with me, and He loves me. His incredible promise—to work all things for the good of those who love Him—helped me to sing my solo that night. No matter what happens, Jesus will never cast me aside. • Linda Ray Center

• Can you think of a time you felt cast aside, alone, or invisible? What was that like?

• If we know Jesus, we can rest in God’s promise to never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). God loves us so much that Jesus was willing to die on the cross to save us. Because He died and rose again, we can look forward to the day our suffering will be over forever (Revelation 21:1-5). Until then, we can always go to God in our pain and receive His comfort (1 Peter 5:7). Consider taking some time to talk to God about any hurts you’ve experienced lately.

• If you’re going through a tough time, and especially if you’re being bullied, who is a trusted adult you can talk to about it—such as a parent, pastor, or teacher?

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (WEB)