BETTY ROBISON — “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)

Family and friends are a gift from the Lord. We were designed for relationship … with God and with one another.

I learned a great deal about my relationship with God during the last year of my mother’s life as she struggled with Alzheimer’s disease. We had always been so close, but it was as if I didn’t even know her anymore. She was no longer the strong-willed, confident woman she once was.

I didn’t know how to respond to her emotions and condition changing daily. Each step I took in this new relationship was shaky and scary.

However, my changing relationship with my mother increased my confidence in God. He alone became my strength and my source. I desperately needed His guidance and His wisdom.

I can say this about so many relationships I’ve had throughout my life, good or bad. I always come to a greater realization of God’s unchanging love for me.

No earthly relationship could ever replace our relationship with God. When the people and circumstances around us change, He stays the same.

Further Study: Numbers 23:19; 1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalm 73:26

Take action: Declare today: Jesus, I receive Your freedom in my life. I receive Your grace and mercy. Fear has no place here. You are my security and my confidence. Your Word is life to my body, soul and spirit.

 — Taken from the book Free to Be Me: 40 Day Devotional by Betty Robison