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. Isaiah 43:2
One thing that is guaranteed in this life on earth is trouble. Every person has struggles and challenges in life. Sometimes it is a daily occurrence, while other times it is just on occasion.
The greatest challenge during times of trouble is that one often feels alone and that he is about to be destroyed. There often does not appear to be any way to really survive the situation and no one is there to help. It looks like the end of the world is near for the person.
Isaiah quotes God in saying that He is with the person when going through various troubles and challenges. As one is going through those problems, he will not be hurt or destroyed.
At the point that Adam and Eve had sinned and were kicked out of the garden of Eden, there has been troubles in this life on earth. Satan is fighting to keep every person away from God or to turn away from Him.
In some of these struggles of life it is if the person is going through a physical fire or a raging river. There does not appear to be any way to survive the trouble.
While the world gives into the trouble and discouragement, the believer can have a hope to survive. Jesus had promised that there would be troubles, but God also promised to be with the believer.
It may be painful and scary as one is going through a raging flood of problems, but he can know that God is right there with him holding his hand and guiding him. God will bring the believer through the situation to salvation on the other side.
God is with you also. You do not need to fear the troubles or what may be the outcome.
The most that these troubles can do is destroy your body. They cannot destroy your soul, the most important thing. God has your soul in His hand. Trust Him to hold on to it and bring you through the struggles.
Most of these troubles will not destroy your body, but only be an inconvenience for a time. God will use those troubles to build you and move you forward in Him. These troubles will pass away.
I pray today that you will know Jesus as your Savior; that you will know God is by your side; that you will know that God is holding you; and that God will save you in the end if you continue to trust Him.
Good word, Tom – especially in these troubled times!
Thank you Sheila. Praying for Italy and you and your husband’s protection during this trying time.