“…do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you…” – Isaiah 48:10 (NIV)
Let’s understand something today: holding on isn’t passive; it’s a significant act of trust that says, “God is doing something in me, not against me.” It is acknowledging that God is with us through it all.
Looking at Job’s season of suffering, in his grief and in his test, he desired the presence of God (Job 23:3). He reminded himself that God is at work and would complete what He has appointed for him (Job 23:14). Job understood God’s workings in his life.
I am reminded of a particular period of pain and misery in my own life, which caused me to yearn so much for God. Psalm 42:1 (KJV) says, “As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God.” My soul thirsted for God during that season, and I went before God and found such comfort, such peace, and strength. I wanted to throw in the towel and give up, but my heavenly Father did not allow me. He kept me going. He made me stronger and built my faith through it all. Brethren, God will complete what He appoints for us.
Hebrews 11:6 (ESV) says, “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him.” Faith will cause us to take the limits off God. It will draw us closer to Him. The closer we draw to Him, the deeper our belief will become. We will grow through the test, and the testing of our faith will produce perseverance (James 1:2-3, Romans 5:3-4). Yes, friends, perseverance will produce character and character hope.
Be encouraged, we will get to that place where we speak to the mountain, and it will move, where we ask God to do the seemingly impossible, and see our prayers answered. Don’t give up on God, for He won’t give up on you. He’s able!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word. I ask today that You give me the strength to go through the test. Help me to look up to You, cause my ears to hear You, and let my eyes see You in this test. Lord, today I let go and trust in Your sovereignty, in the Mighty Name of Jesus. Amen.
Read: Psalm 119:143; Mark 4:17
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 34:11-22; Luke 1:57-80; Numbers 4; Numbers 5:1-10