resilience | lent devotions

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” Isaiah 43:2, NASB

God makes this promise to the Israelites in captivity in Babylon. Although they are held there as a direct result of their disobedience, the Father still wants them to know he loves and cares for them, and has redeemed them. And the imagery he uses is deliberate. He knows his people know their history and will be prompted to remember what he has done for them.  

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…” God split the Red Sea to allow the Israelites (a million men, women and children!) to cross through it and escape into freedom.

“…and when you pass through the rivers, they will not overflow you.” The Lord dried up the Jordan river to reveal a riverbed. His people walked on it into Canaan (the land he had promised them!) and ended their time in the wilderness.

“When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were also captives in Babylon. God protected them when they were thrown into a furnace after refusing to worship any god but the Father. Not only were they rescued, they were subsequently elevated to positions of great responsibility and never had to compromise their faith.

God reminds his people not just of his faithfulness but also that he is a miracle-working God. He wants to remind us of that, too. Part of our developing Kingdom resilience involves trusting that God is who he says he is and will do what he says he will do. Put your trust in your miracle-working Father today. Ask him for the miracle you need. Nothing is impossible for him.

Let’s pray
Father, thank you that you are my ever-present help in times of trouble. I know you love me and are working all things together for my good. I trust you. Deepen my trust in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Want more? Order my new book Developing Kingdom Resilience here!