REMEMBERING GOD'S PROMISE TO ALWAYS BE BY MY SIDE I am faith-filled and fear-free because . . . I am never alone.

On the first day of school, you step out of a familiar environment into the mystery of the unknown.  Those who you have loved and relied on take you to the door of something big, something pretty scary, and they leave you.  You tell yourself you are not going to cry. Yet, at the critical moment, the moment you are forced to stand on your own, the breakdown comes. You stand there fumbling with the buttons on your brand new blouse or shirt, trying to be brave, wanting to run and hide.  You might even kick and scream in protest.  You may even lose your dignity by begging and pleading for things not to change.  No one seems to be listening to you.  They are all trying to convince you that it will be okay. Inevitably, one of the big people leans down.  In that moment, regardless of what is said, the voice of God speaks directly to your heart, saying "Fear not, for I am with you."  Each new day and every new experience is just like the first day of school. It is a renewal of God's promise to never leave you.  If you can stop crying long enough to hear the promise, someone will take your hand and lead you to the classroom of life. By the end of the day, you may feel a little embarrassed about the way you behaved as you realize there really wasn't anything to be afraid of because you are never alone.  God promised to stay with you and God has. Until today, you may have thought you had passed through the first day of school with flying colors.  Just for today, realize that each time you step beyond your comfort zone, it is like entering school for the first time. Also remember that God has promised, if you take one step, God will take two on your behalf. Today I am devoted to remembering God's promise to always be by my side!     From Until Today! by Iyanla Vanzant