What does "I am with you" reveal about God's presence in our lives? Setting the Scene “In Haggai 1:13 we read, ‘Then Haggai, the messenger of the LORD, delivered the message of the LORD to the people: “I am with you,” declares the LORD.’ ” Unpacking the Phrase • “I am” affirms the eternal, self-existent God (Exodus 3:14). • “With” speaks of nearness, not distance—God positions Himself beside His people (Psalm 23:4). • “You” personalizes the promise; it is covenant language directed to every believer (Hebrews 13:5). God’s Presence Then and Now • Old Testament echoes – Genesis 28:15: “I am with you and will watch over you.” – Joshua 1:9: “Do not be afraid… the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” • New Testament fulfillment – Matthew 28:20: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Acts 18:9-10: “Do not be afraid… for I am with you.” What “I Am With You” Means for Daily Life • Constant companionship—never abandoned in hardship (Isaiah 41:10). • Courage to obey—His presence fuels faithful action (Haggai 1:14; John 15:5). • Protection and provision—He guards and supplies (Psalm 121:5-8; Philippians 4:19). • Identity and worth—being “with” God secures who we are (1 Peter 2:9-10). • Mission and witness—His presence empowers our testimony (Acts 1:8). Living It Out 1. Acknowledge His nearness in every situation—speak Scripture aloud. 2. Align choices with the confidence that God stands beside you. 3. Replace fear with faith, recalling He has pledged Himself to you. 4. Engage in worship that celebrates His indwelling Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). 5. Encourage others with the same promise, modeling God’s steadfast presence. Key Takeaways • “I am with you” is a binding declaration from the living God. • His presence is personal, perpetual, and empowering. • Embracing this truth transforms fear into bold, obedient living. |
    |