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GOD IS
A number of years ago, during a very hot summer, we had ferocious bushfires all over Australia. People and animals were running away from the flames just as fire brigades bravely ran toward them. Quite a few times over that season, I felt fear trying to creep in as ash and smoke blocked our view and covered over homes.
Anytime we cannot see the way forward—physically, spiritually, or emotionally—what do we do? It’s easy to panic. I have panicked plenty of times, trying to get my thoughts together to find a way forward. While going through chem, I learned how to pop my hand over my heart, take deep breaths, and pray: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
The first two words in this psalm bring us confidence: God is. God is our refuge, God is our strength, and God is our ever present help. God is.
It’s in times of crisis when we find out what we really believe about God—and if we truly believe He is all He says He is. Every time I am confronted with fear, I have a choice whether or not to allow the Lord to take me that little bit deeper in my trust life. When I do welcome Jesus into these seasons, my understanding of God’s nature and presence is made even more tangible in me.
The words of Psalm 46 draw our attention to the nearness of God in hard times. He’s closer than your closest friend or relative, and even more present than the trouble itself.
Just after my dad died, my overwhelming sense of loss and sadness felt too much to bear. I was at the clothesline crying out to God, when I literally felt the arm of God come around my shoulder to comfort me. He was literally very present, pulling me close as I wept, coming at just the right time.
Though the trials of life will come, and though at times you will walk through the fires, you stand by the grace of God. And as the Scripture tells us, even when heaven and earth pass away, even then, God is!
God, You are an ever-present help to me. You are my refuge and my strength. You are my comforter. Be present with me now. Help me to know You are with me. Amen.
This plan is presented to you by Testament by Darlene Zschech. To learn more about this book, please click here.
About this Plan
In times of loss, anxiety, and uncertainty, we sometimes need reminders from God’s Word that no matter what, He is faithful. This devotional is designed to deepen your faith, strengthen your hope, and help you remember that He who has promised is faithful. No matter what.
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