Be Still Devotional: Day 25

Devotion for Friday March 14
Dr. Paul Magyar | West U Baptist Worship and Senior Adults Pastor

Scripture
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

Devotional Thought
One thing we can expect in life is that seasons change. In winter, most plants tend to die, however, with the advent of spring, new life reemerges.

As surely as different seasons come, trials will surely come, too. Isaiah reminds us that when we pass through life’s trials, God will be with us. On the other side of these trials, growth and deepening faith may result, provided we keep our eyes on the One who alone can guide and protect us through every hardship.

Many of us know the maxim “What does not kill you makes you stronger,” meaning that the next time we face that trouble, or something similar, we’ll have a better chance of getting through. But Isaiah teaches that it is God alone who carries His children through the waters and through the fire. When we rely on God, placing our complete trust in Him, then we can look to Him in every trial of this life and know that He will carry us through.

Reflection Questions
Reflect on the opening lyrics from Scott Wesley Brown’s “He Will Carry You”:

• There is no problem too big God cannot solve it.
• There is no mountain too tall He cannot move it.
• There is no storm too dark God cannot calm it.
• There is no sorrow too deep He cannot soothe it.

How can you apply these words to challenges you might be facing today?

Suggested prayer/action step
In Proverbs 3:5-6, Solomon reminds us to, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Pray these words to God. Tell Him you will trust Him with all your heart, lean on Him, and acknowledge Him as you go through the waters and fires of this life.