I know a man who has worked as a paramedic and firefighter for over two decades. Recently, he shared that he feels haunted by the things he has seen on the job. His memories of horrific things he has seen as a first responder at times makes him feel alone in life. But as a follower of Jesus, this man has made it a mission to continue seeking help and support.

One tool the enemy uses to pull us away from Jesus and bring us into a place of darkness is the sense of isolation, where some bad memory makes you want to go and hide. Maybe he’s telling you you’re alone after a relationship failure, or alone in a battle with addiction, or alone because you lost a loved one, or have a serious illness. Whatever the situation may be, I can promise you one thing: you are never really alone because God is with you at all times. He is with you right now. And He is with you in the most painful moments, when you feel like nobody understands your struggle.

Isaiah 41:10 in the Bible says, “so do not fear, for I am with you…” I urge you to resist the feeling of loneliness and trust in God’s presence. Finding a community of supportive believers can be a big help, but first and foremost – have you believed in Jesus and surrendered your life to Him? That’s step number one.   

This is Luis Palau.