Isaiah 43:2-3
“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”
I first held on to these promises from God when I was experiencing severe anxiety in my 20’s. I had always been a fearful kid, but had not dealt with anxiety and panic attacks before then. During that season of my life, I did a lot of things to work through the anxiety - including seeing doctors and counselors and starting medication - but the best solution I found was reading and learning God’s word. I poured over Scriptures that talked about peace and comfort and having a sound mind. It was the truth of God’s words that helped pull me out of those dark days. When my mind ran to the worst places and wasn’t telling me the truth, I could hold on to the truth of the words God spoke through Scripture.
Years later, I went through a heartbreaking divorce and experienced unimaginable grief, but again I could hold on to God’s promises: “I will be with you; you will not drown; you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” I knew I would not be left alone to die in my grief. God was with me.
No matter what you have faced or will face in life you can trust in God’s promises. He is faithful and will always be with you. He is our comforter, strong tower, and our Prince of Peace. Hold on to His word and be encouraged to continue living out your days in faith and strength.
Let’s pray: God, thank you for the gift of Your Word. And thank you for always being with me even on my darkest days. Surround me with your love and comfort and help me to keep trusting in you and your plans for me. Amen.
