Isaiah 41:10 (Amplified)
“Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice.”
It seems like a hundred years ago that I was a small boy struggling to memorize Scripture in a Sunday School Class in Camas, Washington. One of the first verses that I ever memorized was Isaiah 41:10.
Across the years I have recited this verse and meditated upon it. That reminds me that it really is vital to memorize a verse before you can meditate on it. As I have contemplated on the meaning I have been encouraged to stay as far away from fear and depression as possible.
I especially like the way the Amplified Bible explains that in reality there is nothing for the believer to fear. If we live, we live for the Lord. If we die, our next awareness is to be in the presence of the Lord. Either way there is nothing to fear.
Depression is our limiting the ability of the Lord to bring glory out of the most impossible situation. Someone has said, “I can’t, He can! That’s all I need to know—let’s go!”
Another of the verses I memorized so long ago was Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” If we truly believe this verse, we will move from victory to victory—regardless of the circumstances. That is the way to live!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil