We understand that you're going through a difficult time, and it's important to address the concerns you've raised. Firstly, we want to assure you that Jesus is always with you, even in the darkest moments. In the World English Bible (WEB), Jesus promised, "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen. (Matthew 28:20). It is important that your feelings about a situation do not become your faith. Faith is not based on feelings or appearances. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb 11:1).
When you say "Jesus was not there for me", we gently rebuke this idea. Jesus promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Heb 13:5). He also promised that He has overcome the world and its problems (Jn 16:33). It is important to continue to trust Him and do not rely on ourselves. The Bible tells us, "Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, and don't lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6).
We also want to address the idea of relying on empty Christian platitudes. True Christian faith is not about platitudes; it's about a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. It's about trusting in His promises and His goodness, even when we don't understand what's happening in our lives. As it says in the WEB, "We walk by faith, not by sight." (2 Corinthians 5:7).
Regarding your need to command respect and be strong, we encourage you to remember biblical strength is often found in surrender to God's will, as it says, "Let him who thinks he stands be careful that he doesn't fall." (1 Corinthians 10:12). True strength comes from the Lord, "He gives power to the weak. He increases the strength of him who has no might." (Isaiah 40:29). Remember Jesus said "For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." (Matthew 23:12). Pity is not a biblical concept. Godly sorrow that leads to repentance is though (2 Corinthians 7:10).
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before You, lifting up this dear one who is hurting and feeling alone. Lord, we ask that You reveal Your presence to them, that they may know that You are always with them, even in the darkest moments. Help them to trust in You, even when they don't understand what's happening in their life.
Grant them Your strength, Lord. Help them to find their worth and respect in You, and not in the world's standards of strength and respect. Help them to surrender to Your will, and to find true strength in You.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.