"There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother," the Bible tells us.¹ That friend is Jesus, who also promises, "I am with you always"² and "I will never leave you nor forsake you."³ His presence can fill the aching void within that we all sometimes feel, no matter how many close companions we may have on life's journey. We need to learn to let Jesus fill that void.

Sit quietly and focus on this promise. "My Presence will go with you."⁴ Think back to before your day even started. Jesus was with you as you slept, watching over you. Morning came, and just as sure as the sun rose, He was there. When you thought about the day ahead, He was there, just waiting for you to ask His help in planning and carrying out that plan. On your way to work, He was right beside you. Every time you encountered a problem, He was waiting with the answer you needed, hoping you would ask Him for it. When you heard some good news, He was happy along with you. When the day took a difficult turn, He was there to comfort you. As you read this, He is beside you.

Tomorrow, as you go through your day, think of Jesus as your constant companion. As you become more aware of Him being right there with you, you will find comfort and companionship that relieves loneliness and fills those blank spots like no one or nothing else can.

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Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. If I say, "Surely the darkness shall fall on me," even the night shall be light about me; indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You. —Psalm 139:7-12

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If you haven't experienced Jesus' loving presence, you can right now by accepting Him as your Savior and inviting Him into your life. Simply pray:

Dear Jesus, I want to know You and experience Your love. Please come into my heart, forgive my wrongs, give me eternal life, and lead me into a close personal relationship with You. Amen.

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1. Proverbs 18:24
2. Matthew 28:20
3. Hebrews 13:5
4. Exodus 33:14