Celebrating Hope: Looking Back Stepping Up预览

Hope Passing Through

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. - Isaiah 43:2

Have you ever felt as though you were life’s punching bag? Enduring the blows of repeated tough circumstances and wondering how to avoid troubles, what defense you could put up, and how to overcome? We will have challenges in life, but we have a God who promises that as we step into and go through challenges, they will not overtake us if our hope is in Him. Trusting God makes us stronger, and He will not let adversity conquer those who hope in Him. 

Just as we may feel captive to adversity, the Israelites faced captivity in Babylon decade after decade. They and their leaders had abandoned God, turned to idol worship, and departed from God’s commands and promises. But God spoke through the prophet Isaiah, reminding them how He had protected them and loved Israel throughout their history. Isaiah recounted how God had always delivered them because of His character. “For I am the LORD, your God . . . your Savior” (Isaiah 43:3). 

God’s faithfulness is always available when we turn to Him. No matter how small or great our trouble, opposition, or failure seems, God can take on our battles and hurts. Being redeemed by God means we are made whole through believing in Him. Despite our times of sin, brokenness, and battle, we are worthy of God’s love through Christ. He will be with us through “fire” and “flood” (Isaiah 43:2). —Alyse Johnson

Think of a difficult circumstance you have been dealt with recently (family difficulties, work, sickness, etc.). How did you turn to God, or separate from Him? 

Dear Lord, thank You for helping me to pause daily to reflect on Your comfort amid the stressors of life, and for Your protection in every circumstance. Amen.