“Don’t be afraid, for I am your God”

Read: Isaiah 41:8-10, 13

Reflect: Through Isaiah the prophet, God pledged to strengthen and help any descendant of Abraham willing to join in God’s redemptive mission for the world. Later, the apostle Paul, who counted on God’s strength for his life mission, extended Isaiah’s promise to all Christ followers. “If you belong to Christ, then indeed you are Abraham’s descendants,” he wrote (Galatians 3:29).

• Through the prophet, God offered freedom from fear, and strength and help for our spiritual journey. What are some of the main ways that you go about accessing the promised strength and help? At the start of the year, it’s worth learning or reviewing some of the major spiritual practices many Christians use to connect with God’s power. Click here for a concise list of them.

• Many scholars believe chapter 40 on in the book of Isaiah spoke to Israelites living through the bitter experience of defeat and exile in Babylon. Few things could make people feel more powerless. What situations are you facing that leave you feeling powerless and afraid? Read today’s passage again, and put your name in place of “Israel,” “Jacob” and “Abraham.” As you do, ask God to speak courage to your heart.

Pray: Lord God, I wish all the bad in our world would just go away right now—but it won’t. But you promise that you can and will ultimately make it all come out right. Give me courage to do my part in working with you. Amen.