God Is Closer Than Your Breath

38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I was working as a French teacher in a school in St. John’s. One day, I received a very unexpected call from my mother. She said that my father had had a heart attack and that he was taken to Grand Falls hospital. By the time Steve and I got to the hospital, Dad had been stabilized. What a relief!

However, very late one night, we received a call that he had taken a turn for the worse.

I remember when I entered his hospital room, I could see that his heart was beating wildly. I could literally see his chest moving because his heart rate was so elevated. I was really afraid that he wasn’t going to make it. I remember saying this over my father: “You shall live and not die, and declare the works of the Lord.” (Based on Psalm 118:17.)

I am very happy to say that my father recovered from that ordeal!

I am telling this story because of one of the things my father shared with me afterward. I recall asking him if he was afraid of dying. He said that he wasn’t fearful.

He also helped me understand this profound thought – He said that although he was unsure that he would draw another breath into his lungs, he was sure that God was there with him. “God is closer than your very breath!”

This truth comforts me when I feel afraid. Have you ever heard the song He’s as Close as the Mention of His Name by Gordon Jensen? I believe He’s even closer than that. God is there when we can’t even utter a word. God is there when your next breath isn’t!

Not even death can separate you from God’s love! To have this peace of mind is priceless.

God bless you today.

Reflection

When have you felt afraid or unable to find words to pray? What does knowing that God is near mean to you?

Prayer

Father, thank You for being near, even when I cannot find the words to pray. When I feel afraid, remind me of Your love. Help me to trust Your presence through every uncertain moment. Amen.