You'll NEVER Walk Alone

Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II penned the song "You'll Never Walk Alone." I remember singing it with the Delaware State University Concert Choir. As a 17 year old, new to college life, surrounded by so many new people and seeing so many new faces, the thought of being alone was far from my reality. It wasn't until later in life that I'd come to develop an appreciation for the lyrics.

Choosing to walk the path of a Christian (follower of Christ) is not easy. We often hear people say "It's not easy, but it's worth it." Sounds cliche', but it's the God's honest truth! It requires a great amount of sacrifice. It means not being able to go where everyone else goes, not being able to say what everyone else says, not being able to do what everyone else does. We cannot constantly satiate our flesh. We must decrease so Christ can increase (John 3:30). We must have the attitude of Paul who said, "I am crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20).

We were bought with a price. Our bodies are not our own. So we must use our bodies for God's glory (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Yes, we may lose friends along the way. We may even lose spouses or loved ones. Yes, people will probably talk about us and tease us and laugh at us and scratch their heads concerning us. We'll be called "Holy Rollers," "Jesus Freaks," and names of all sorts. But it matters not what man calls us. What does God himself call us? Personally, I'm favored that He calls me "friend." I'm delighted that he calls me "daughter." Concerning my gifts and assignments, He calls me teacher and scribe. I'm flabbergasted that I'm fearfully and wonderfully made. I must honor His creation, for mighty are the works of His hands.

Seems like a lonely existence right? It can be, at times. But I've come to realize that in those quiet moments, one of two things is occurring. God has removed people because He's desiring more time with me or I've isolated myself, allowing the enemy easy access to my mind. Be able to discern which is occurring. And if you're not sure, always go with the idea that God is desiring more time with you! There's no such thing as too much prayer and time with God. If you're in His presence, you'll NEVER feel lonely!

I urge you, brothers and sisters, to go with God...LITERALLY! This is not simply a cutesy closing, it's a beseechment, a request! GO WITH GOD! When you travel this journey with Him, you have His promise, His word, His assurance that He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). "Though you walk through a storm, hold your head up high, and don't be afraid of the dark...Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart and you'll never walk alone. You'll NEVER walk alone!" ~ Rodgers and Hammerstein

Sharon C.

12/12/13