Think on These Things: Positive thoughts in a negative world…
Being a Christian does not exempt us from trials and troubles. We may try to avoid the raging rivers in life, but sooner or later they catch up with us. We don’t all go through the same troubled waters. Some may face poverty, ill health, or discrimination while others deal with abuse, handicaps, or loss. But let’s face it, all God’s children got stuff to deal with.
Our lives will always be filled with mountains to climb and rivers to cross. At times we may feel like we can’t cross. Our faith is weak. Perhaps sorrow and grief seem greater than we can bear. The challenges we face have depleted our strength. And if we are indeed relying on our own strength, chances are we might not make it. However, God has promised to “pass through the waters” with us.
When the people of Ancient Israel were going through distressing times, God had words of comfort and hope to offer them through the prophet Isaiah. “…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you…” (Isaiah 43:1-2).
The Israelites had been dispersed and scattered by the Assyrians. Judah was being taken captive by Babylon. Yet even though these overwhelming events were happening, God told them He would be with them. When they had to “pass through” difficult times, God would be with them. This was His promise to them—and to us—and God keeps all His promises (1 Kings 8:56).
How can we be sure that God will “pass through” with us? Because God says, “Fear not! I have redeemed you! I have called you by name and you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1). We are God’s. He has purchased our eternal salvation. We are precious to God. And while it’s true we must “pass through” the water, God is always with us.
Sometimes God parts the water and we go through on dry land like he did for Moses. However, sometimes we have to actually step in the water first. When Joshua was faced with crossing the overflowing Jordan River into Jericho, God told the Israelites to break camp, form a line, and actually step into the river before it would be opened (Joshua 3:7-17). They had to walk by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7). They were told to “set foot into the Jordan”—not to wait for it to open (Joshua 3:13).
Many times we are hesitant to go forward because we want all barriers removed before we proceed. However, God does not usually provide help before help is needed. He doesn’t remove obstacles out of our way before we need them moved. God does everything step by step. That’s why we need to walk with Him. If we are walking with God, we will never have to “pass through the waters” alone.
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“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” ~Philippians 4:8 (KJV)
