SWHW Bible Reading Plan: May 2021Sample

Top Takeaway From Caren Fehr:

"But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God...." Isaiah 43:1-3a

God is speaking these words to remind His people (that's us) that He is their Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer, Provider, Protector, and Savior. He is trying to help them not allow what their eyes are seeing (scary circumstances) to brainwash them for what God has said (His promises).

Trials are inevitable. But when we go through them, we are promised God's presence, power, and provision.

As I was reading the promise: "when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you," I was reminded of when Jesus was sleeping in the boat in Mark 4:38-40. Our boats will go through many storms (notice it says rivers, not river). We don't have to fear because Jesus is promising us that He is in our boat; we will not drown.

A few questions I want you to consider with me:

How differently would we live if we not only knew of God's attributes, but really believed that He is who He says He is?

How differently would we live if we not only knew what God's Word says about us, but we really believed who He says we are in Him?

How differently would we live if we not only knew God's promises, but believed them more than what our human eyes can see and our human mind can understand?

I am confident we would live more boldly, we would take more Spirit-led risks, and we would live without fear or fret.

Lastly, I invite you to meditate on these words: “I will be with you.”

Five simple words that, if believed, change everything. It matters little what we face (big or small) when we know and believe that God is with us to comfort, guide, and sustain us.

Father, thank You for daily reminding me of Your promises, Your love for me, and my identity in You. Teach me to keep my eyes fixed on You so I am not swayed by the storms.  I will fear not, because You have redeemed me. You have called me by name; I am Yours. When I pass through the waters, You will be with me; and the rivers will not sweep over me. When I walk through the fire, I won’t be burned and the flame won’t set me ablaze. Please guide me through every challenge I face so that my response may always bring glory to Your Name. I love You! Amen.