I Will Be With You

Author's note: I wrote this several years ago after speaking with a friend who was facing the imminent death of her husband. As we spoke and prayed, I wanted so much to find words that would ease her pain, and offer her hope in the midst of her grief. I went home, and stayed up all night struggling with the same question: what could I say that would help? In fact, I ended up spending several nights doing just the same. As I read from Scripture on the last of those long nights, I was reminded of the obvious.  My words don't hold the answer.  My words have no power to help.  When our needs are deep and profound, only God's words can offer true hope, consolation, and comfort.  As that fact reclaimed its rightful place in my mind, I was reading from the book of Isaiah.  When I finished reading, I put my Bible aside, and wrote this song. What I could not conceive over several days, God gave me in a matter of minutes. 

The song is inspired by Isaiah, Chapter 43, Verses 2 and 3, and draws upon many other verses from throughout Scripture.

I now offer this song, and my prayers, for those grieving and suffering 
in Santa Fe, Texas as a result of today's shooting. May God be with you
and comfort you.

* * * 

        I Will Be With You
            by Joseph Weilenbeck

When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you.
When the rivers overflow,
I will bring you through.
When you walk through the fire,
You will not be harmed.
I will keep you
Sure and safe
In My arms.

For I am your God
And My word is true.
I will guard your heart
When troubles come to you.

Be at peace and know
You can trust in My plan.
And always,
I will hold you in My hand.

When all your strength is gone,
I will carry you.
When you’re alone, afraid, and numb,
I will be there too.
When each tear leaves your eye,
I will hear it fall.
I love you.
I’ll be with you
Through it all.

For I am your God.
I will be with you.
Whatever trials you face,
I will see you through.

Though darkness may come,
By Me, you shall stand.
And always,
I will hold you in My hand.

Even now,
      I am holding you
                   In My hand.


Joseph Weilenbeck 2005

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God,  the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.        ~Isaiah 43:2, 3 (ESV)