“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

Once when I was a little girl, my cousin and I walked along the beach hand in hand. It was the first time I’d been to the ocean, and I was enjoying every minute of it.

As we strolled along, taking in the breeze and beautiful day, my cousin turned to talk to someone sitting on the sand.

That’s when it happened. A wave, larger than I was tall, swept me off my feet. I was terrified, the unexpected rush leaving me without a moment to prepare or catch my breath.

I was under the water for what felt like far too long, but thankfully, she never let go of my hand.

My young mind imagined that if she were to let go, I would suddenly be carried away, too weak and inexperienced to survive that powerful wave alone.

She held on tightly. She didn’t let me go.

The water receded, and I stood up, a bit dazed by what had happened.

What I thought was going to be a beautiful, joy-filled experience had completely knocked me off my feet, and I was trying to shake off the horrible feeling of impending doom.

My cousin seemed completely unaware of any danger. She was laughing and joking, and we continued with our stroll.

Deflated, I wondered if other dangers awaited me in this beautiful place, and if she would be able to keep me from more harm.

On the other hand, God is always aware. He’s also unbothered by the waves of life that leave you soaking wet and breathless, seeming to drown out all sense of direction.

So in those moments when the children misbehave, or the feelings of isolation creep in, and you begin to wonder if you even have what it takes to nurture another being? God is right there with you, and He knows exactly what you’re going through. When the diagnosis hits, the relationship starts to crumble or the job you love disappears …? God is right beside you.

As displayed in Isaiah 41:10, God encourages you not to be afraid; instead be assured He will strengthen and help you along your journey:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

When those waves of responsibility, tantrums or sleepless nights leave you feeling out of breath and grasping for a hand to pull you out of your situation, know that you’re safe, right where you are.

He simply longs for you to trust Him whether the moments are full of beauty or the wind brings battering waves.

You’re being upheld by the righteous right hand of the Father, and there’s no storm strong enough to take you under while you’re in His care.

Dear God, thank You for refuge from the storms life brings and the safety and assurance found in Your presence. May I cling to You, moment by moment, knowing Your hand of power, victory and salvation sustains me in every situation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

TRUTH FOR TODAY

Psalms 34:7-8, “The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.” (NIV)

2 Corinthians 12:9, “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (NIV)

RELATED RESOURCES

“I can't tell you how many days you guys literally reach into my soul and speak the truth I need to be reminded of when my life feels upside down and out of control.” — Melissa T.

Women like Melissa encounter the life-changing truth of God’s Word through our daily devotions. Will you help us reach more women like Melissa? We need you. Donate today.

CONNECT

Connect with Proverbs 31 Ministries on Facebook and Instagram, and you’ll find encouragement and Scripture to help you respond to your fears in faith.

REFLECT AND RESPOND

Do you tend to respond with faith or fear when life’s waves rush in? Why do you believe you do this?

What could you accomplish with greater assurance in God and the strength and safety He offers you during the “storms” of life? Join the conversation, and let us hear from you in the comments!

© 2019 by Tracie Braylock. All rights reserved.