THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Lord, throughout Scripture, You tell Your followers not to fear. When You say, “Do not be afraid,” You’re asking us to suppress our human nature and put our faith into action, to believe Your promises of security, provision, the safe return of a prodigal loved one—whatever our need at the time, that You will walk with us. For those who closely follow national and world events, unrest, turmoil, wars grip people with fear, even Christ followers. These human woes have plagued mankind since the second bite of the apple in the Garden. God’s people have never been exempt from these human sufferings even though some misguided religious people claim otherwise.

God spoke through the prophet Isaiah to comfort His suffering people. “Do not be afraid,” the Lord says, “for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine,” (Isaiah 43:1)

Lord, You know each one of us and see how sinful we are, yet You claim us as one of Your own anyway. That’s Your grace at work.

“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,” (Isaiah 43:2).

At some time, we all will experience “deep waters,” “rivers of difficulty,” or “the fire of oppression.” Lord, I’ve noticed You never said “if” but “when” we suffer, You will be with us. When these things happen, help us reject fear, but instead, first look to You for our comfort, strength and guidance.

I’m thankful, Jesus, no matter my circumstances, You are always with me. Amen.