Walking Through

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.

Isaiah 43:2 esv

Sometimes we might find ourselves stuck in a place we don’t want to be and don’t know how to get out of. Maybe we’ve reached out and tried to make changes or find a better path, only to end up back in the same place, day after day, feeling discouraged.

Times of struggle, grief, or need can leave us feeling unsure and fearful. But Psalm 23:4 boasts this comforting statement: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (esv).

When children are exploring, sometimes they walk, grab, open, and push everything as their curiosity gets the best of them. Other times—when they don’t dare go alone—they reach for the finger of someone bigger to join them in their discovery. And with that grip secure, they can do anything.

Similarly, in times of fear or uncertainty, God offers his saving hands for us to hold. He will walk with—even sometimes carry—us through the shadowy places. We have the promise of a God who will join us for the journey. We can rest in the knowledge that he holds our past, present, and future.

In the end, if we don’t have God, we don’t have anything other than an end.

Craig D. Lounsbrough

God never said that the journey would be easy, but he did say that the arrival would be worthwhile.

Max Lucado

For Further Reflection

Deuteronomy 31:8; Isaiah 45:2

Today’s Prayer

Father, thank you for the promise that you will be with me always. As I walk through these dark days, I know you see me, but sometimes I can’t see you. I can’t sense you. Help me to reach out to your mighty finger that will never let me go. Amen.