When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. – Isaiah 43:2
Storms of life are inevitable, whether in our everyday life or in ministry, there are times when we are going to feel the heat of the battle and we wonder if we are going to survive this season. Whether it is physical challenges with our health, financial struggles or relational difficulties it may feel like we’re in a battle that we are going to lose. Isaiah reminds us that no matter what we are going through, with the Lord on our side we will overcome.
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed as though the waters will come over us or the fire will scorch us and we are not sure how we will make it out. That is when we are focusing on the circumstances and not the one who spoke to the storm and said, “peace be still”.
Just a few chapters earlier, Isaiah also wrote these words from God, “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’” (Isaiah 41:10). In the middle of our battles, we can remember that it is not our strength that we are relying on, but God’s. As David declared in facing Goliath, “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47).
Yes, we will face our own “Goliaths” as we journey through this life, especially if we are striving to serve the Lord faithfully, but we are assured that we will overcome not in our own might but to stand still and see the glory of our God at work.
During my recent stormy season, I was introduced to a song by Shane and Shane, “You’ve Already One”, here are some of the lyrics:
There is peace that outlasts darkness
Hope that's in the blood
There's future grace that's mine today
That Jesus Christ has won
So, I can face tomorrow
For tomorrow's in Your hands
All I need You will provide
Just like You always have
When the sea is raging
Your Spirit is my help
He'll fix my eyes on Jesus Christ
I'll say that it is well
Oh, I know that it is well.
I'm fighting a battle
You've already won
No matter what comes my way
I will overcome
Don't know what You're doing
But I know what You've done
I'm fighting a battle
You've already won
It is a gracious reminder of the truth that we may not always understand the “why” of the storm, but we do know who has One who has won the battle for us! We you come out of the storm on the other side you will be stronger and in a better place. So hold on, stand still and watch God work.
~ Insights for the Journey is a weekly devotional from Pastor Christopher Clark to engage, encourage and equip believers in their Christian journey. This devotional and others can also be found on our website: www.cordovabc.org/insights_for_the_journey. ~
