Good Day To You,

When the prophet Isaiah revealed the following encouragement and truth to the people of Israel, they understood the application and word pictures he was using. All they needed to do was to recall their history.

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. ISA. 43:2

The people of Israel would understand that the “deep waters” would refer to the historical event in their past of the Red Sea and the encounter with Pharaoh and his army, and what looked to be the end of their freedom. But God their Father parted the waters and led them through on dry ground. And he vanquished their enemies. The hearer would also understand that the “rivers of difficulty” was recalling when the people of Israel were to enter the promised land, but they came to the Jordan river at flood stage. They were stuck, but God told the priests to enter the waters, and he again made a way “through” what seemed impossible.

You may be dealing even today with deep waters, or rivers of difficulty. Remember that your promised land and freedom lie just ahead. He promises to be with you and walk you through these challenges and trials. You may feel trapped overwhelmed by the deep waters in front of you and panic and fear has set in. Lift your eyes and seek his heart, thus raising your own personal staff of obedience, and see him accomplish much. You may be stuck with no way forward, for the river in your path is too rough and strong. But believe and step into the waters and he will make a way through this difficult season. All the time he will be with you, present. The greatest gifts are his grace and presence with you and his peace that embraces you when emotionally it doesn’t even make sense.

Q: Why do you think our Father God always wants us to participate in the provision that he’s bringing about?

Q: When in your past has God brought you through deep waters or rivers of difficulty?