Finding Strength In Times Of Trouble

LORD, be merciful to us,

for we have waited for you.

Be our strong arm each day

and our salvation in times of trouble.

The enemy runs at the sound of your voice.

When you stand up, the nations flee!

Isaiah 33:2-3

Right after this prayer for God to rescue Israel, the prophet Isaiah described the Israelites’ desperate plight: The Assyrians had refused their petition for peace. All the land was in trouble. The roads were deserted, and no one dared to travel them anymore. Lebanon was full of shame, the Plain of Sharon was a wilderness, and Bashan and Carmel had been plundered (Isaiah 33:7-9). Yet Isaiah’s trust in the Lord never wavered during this difficult time. Because he believed God’s promise to protect and deliver his people, Isaiah could pray with confidence, “Be our strong arm each day and our salvation in times of trouble.”

God’s promises haven’t changed. He is still our strength each day and our salvation in times of trouble. In our time of trouble, we can call upon him as Isaiah did.

• Dear Lord, even though I’m weak and in trouble, I believe your promise. Be my strength each day . . .