Connecting During DeploymentSample

Experiencing God’s Presence

Let’s admit it—there is a certain loneliness that comes with military service. Deployment means geographic separation from loved ones. Even when you experience camaraderie in your deployed unit, you can still feel a certain loneliness while maintaining a constant alert at a remote location or experiencing encroaching fear in battle. 

Even at home, isolation can occur simply because neighbors, friends, or even family might not understand or appreciate the mission and calling . . . especially given the demands of today’s ops tempo. 

So I don’t think we can remind one another often enough that we are never alone. The presence of God is real and sure. It is a wonderful gift. From beginning to end, the Bible assures us of God’s desire to have an intimate relationship with us. With the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, we can experience peace in the midst of chaos, security in the midst of danger, comfort in the midst of pain, and reassurance in the midst of loneliness.

Four of my favorite “presence” reminders are found in the Old Testament:

• The patriarch Jacob is alone at Bethel when God meets him in a dream. Genesis 28:13-16 ends: “Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, ‘Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know it.’”
• Moses expressed his concern to the LORD about leading the Israelites out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. “And he said, ‘My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest’” (Exodus 33:14).
• Psalm 139:7-10 are my favorite verses verifying God’s presence all over the world—a significant encouragement during deployment!
• God assured the great commander and leader, Joshua, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened; and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

Good words then . . . good words now . . . good words wherever you are in the world tonight. You are never alone if you know the presence of God.

1. What circumstances typically trigger feelings of loneliness? What can you do to change your routines to avoid these triggers?

2. Print cards with your favorite Scripture verses to refer to routinely and remind you of God’s promises. Share these with your spouse.

We have a hole in our heart that only God can fill. Read “Created for Intimacy.”