Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts . . . and lead me in the way everlasting.

— Psalm 139:23-24

Mikhail is a refugee. He lives in a strange land and struggles to learn a new language. He misses his old friends and tries to fit in. In an email Mikhail shared his prayers with us: “I pray that I don’t have to feel lonely anymore. I pray that I can make contributions to the world. I pray to be free from this anxiety and depression. I’m exhausted.”

Most of us are not refugees. We don’t know what it’s like to be uprooted by military conflict or persecution. We don’t have to run for our lives. But many of us still know what anguish, anxiety, and loneliness are all about.

In Psalm 139 we read about the God who searches for us and knows us. God’s love goes far beyond geographic distances, political borders, and human circumstances. God knows our needs perfectly and cares about us. He sends his Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us in our search for peace, even if we have to cross difficult and unfamiliar terrain.

When we feel hurt, when our situation looks bleak, when we are haunted by dark, anxious thoughts, let us remember that we are not alone. Our loving and caring God is always near. He is able to help.

Turn to him, seek his face, read his Word, and he will lead you in the way everlasting.

Our searching and knowing God, please guide us as we seek to walk with you. Help us to be your faithful followers in good times and bad. In Jesus’ name, Amen.