Assurance When Life’s Waves Rush In
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“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
Once when I was a little girl, my cousin and I walked along the beach hand in hand. It was the first time I’d been to the ocean, and I was enjoying every minute of it.
As we strolled along, taking in the breeze and beautiful day, my cousin turned to talk to someone sitting on the sand.
That’s when it happened. A wave, larger than I was tall, swept me off my feet. I was terrified, the unexpected rush leaving me without a moment to prepare or catch my breath.
I was under the water for what felt like far too long, but thankfully, she never let go of my hand.
My young mind imagined that if she were to let go, I would suddenly be carried away, too weak and inexperienced to survive that powerful wave alone.
She held on tightly. She didn’t let me go.
The water receded, and I stood up, a bit dazed by what had happened.
What I thought was going to be a beautiful, joy-filled experience had completely knocked me off my feet, and I was trying to shake off the horrible feeling of impending doom.
My cousin seemed completely unaware of any danger. She was laughing and joking, and we continued with our stroll.
Deflated, I wondered if other dangers awaited me in this beautiful place, and if she would be able to keep me from more harm.
On the other hand, God is always aware. He’s also unbothered by the waves of life that leave you soaking wet and breathless, seeming to drown out all sense of direction.
So in those moments when the children misbehave, or the feelings of isolation creep in, and you begin to wonder if you even have what it takes to nurture another being? God is right there with you, and He knows exactly what you’re going through. When the diagnosis hits, the relationship starts to crumble or the job you love disappears …? God is right beside you.
As displayed in Isaiah 41:10, God encourages you not to be afraid; instead be assured He will strengthen and help you along your journey:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).
