The Upper Room Devotion for Thursday, October 26, 2023, was written by Cindy M. of Gauteng, South Africa.
Scripture
8 But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; 9 you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, “You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off!”; 10 do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:8-10 NRSV
Author's Thoughts
I was afraid when I first went to boarding school because I had heard nasty stories about boarding -school life. But as our parents dropped my sister and me off at school, my sister said, "Being a first -year student can be hectic. Senior students may give you a hard time. They might even take your belongings without your consent. You are lucky because I will always be there for you." My sister's words took away my fear. Knowing that my sister would take care of me brought some relief. How much more encouragement, strength, and comfort can we have in knowing that God is always there, ready to help us?
Isaiah 41:10 assures us that we have nothing to fear and no reason to be dismayed. Although God does not promise us a life free of troubles, God promises to be present, to give us strength, and to uphold us with God's righteous right hand. And God's promises are forever. When others try to tear us down and we feel that we cannot overcome, we must remember that God is always with us and will uphold us.
Pastor Anthony's Thoughts
Friends,
In invite you to re-read Cindy's reflection, reminding yourself that: "Although God does not promise us a life free of troubles, God promises to be present."
Author's Prayer
Faithful God, help us always to trust and hold on to your promises even in the face of adversity. Amen.