You’ve been traveling for more hours than you care to count and there are no rest stops in sight. It’s difficult to keep focused on the road ahead when it’s raining and the gps on your phone has stopped working. It’s dark and you’re on a two-lane road, in cow country. You’ve run out of snacks, you’ve had too much water and did I mention there are no rest stops?

Have you ever been there? Emotionally? Spiritually? I have. We all have.

In those moments it is difficult to remain faithful when you can’t see through the torrential downpour on your windshield. When you feel like that deluge is a sure reflection of what’s happening in your heart.

And then you hear the gentle whisper of Jesus. “I see you. I know you. I am here.”

The rain lightens a bit.

You see, He is your Rest. So stop for a moment and enter in. The joy of the Lord is your strength.

He knows exactly what you need.

A friend calls. You hear a favorite song on the radio. Someone says something that makes you giggle.

All gentle kisses from the One who knows you.

He knows you, Beloved.

Roll down the window and breathe in the fresh rain-filled air. Let your heart be refreshed. You can go a bit longer. You are not alone. The Maker of the Heavens sees you and knows your name!

Stay the course dear friend. Be brave.