In 1970, Berry Gordy and his team wrote I’ll Be There for the Jackson 5. It became their fourth #1 hit in a row, the most successful single of Motown’s Detroit era, and the song that established Michael Jackson as more than just a child pop star. His tender voice carried wisdom far beyond his twelve years.
It’s a beautiful song—covered countless times, making millions. But there’s one problem: the promise in the song is impossible to keep. I’ll be there whenever you need me. As much as we may love someone, none of us can make that promise perfectly. I can’t always be there for my son. I want to, I try to—but I’m human.
But there is One who can say it and mean it.
Jesus’ Final Words
In Matthew 28:16–20, the risen Jesus gives His disciples their mission:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations… And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
This is not a sentimental lyric. It’s a promise backed by divine authority. Jesus is greater than every hardship, every opposition, even death itself. His command to go is not optional—it’s the way the gospel spreads. And His assurance is clear: As you go, I’ll be there.
The Greek phrase for “always” here literally means the whole of every day. Or in today’s language: all day, every day. Jesus’ presence is not occasional or conditional. It stretches beyond the end of the age into eternity itself.
The Spirit’s Presence
Jesus doubled down on this promise in John 14:16: “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever.” By the Spirit, His presence is with us every moment of every day.
So let me ask:
- What would you do if you truly believed God was with you all day, every day?
- How would it change your confidence, your decisions, your boldness?
Some of us are sitting on dreams, gifts, businesses, and callings because we feel alone, under-resourced, or inadequate. But hear this: You are not alone. You have what you need. Because all day, every day—God is with you.
Keep seeking His kingdom. Keep walking in integrity. Stay in community. Obey His command to go. Align your desires with His, and watch Him open the floodgates of heaven over your life.
God’s Nearness in Scripture
The psalmist said it beautifully:
“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there… even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” (Psalm 139:7–10)
Even in the darkest places, God is present. Even when we feel abandoned, He is near.
Worship Him Freely
When the disciples saw Jesus, some worshiped, others doubted (Matthew 28:17). Yet Jesus received them both, affirmed them, and commissioned them. Why? Because His presence isn’t tied to our perfection—it’s tied to His promise.
We can worship Him freely because He is faithful. He does what He says He will do. A secure heart naturally overflows with praise.
Go Boldly
- Go with confidence – Jesus holds all authority. Nothing can stand against His purposes.
- Make disciples – Don’t shrink back from rejection or fear. He provides what you need.
- Teach without compromise – Faithfully share His truth; leave the results to Him.
As you go into your relationships, your work, your community, your calling, remember: Jesus’ promise is not like ours. His “I’ll be there” is real, reliable, and unending.
