The so-called sovereign nations of the world are not truly sovereign. They are nothing more than instruments in the hand of God to accomplish His will; sometimes to protect His people, sometimes to open doors for advancement of the gospel, and sometimes to be His instrument of judgment against ungodliness. As God looks down upon the nations that accomplish His purpose, even while rebelling against Him, He sees them as nothing more than His instruments (Isaiah 10:15).
Jerry Bridges

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Do Not Be Dismayed

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#1 · October 24, 2003, 2:13 pm

Posted by: Asn <Asn@...>

(My schedule's been crazy lately; thank you to those of you who hold me accountable to keep writing. I appreciate you.)

I took you from the ends of the earth; from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. 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 41:9-10

Have you been tempted to fear lately? Or worry? Or be disappointed? If so, you're human. I find that the older I get the better I get at worrying. We can't see the future, can't know what tomorrow will bring, and so we worry. There is so much at stake if things turn sour, and so we fear. Things don't appear to be heading in the direction we hoped for and we get dismayed. But God tells us not to fear or be dismayed. (But God, I'm so good at it!) His direction, however, is not only for when life is all sunshine and smiles. It is for the days when all hell breaks loose. "Do no fear." It is for the days that seem endless * and hopeless. "Do not be dismayed." Why? Because the Great I AM is with you! He is your God. He is on your side. He is working all things together for your good. He will be your strength and your shield. He is your ever-present help in times of trouble. His right hand will steady you and hold you up. What an incredible promise from the heart of a loving God!

Father God, You are my steadfast Rock, the One who holds me when the battle rages. The turbulent winds that seek to steer me off course do not move You. Those things that are so clearly over my head are still under Your feet. Thank You that You are with me, that You are in me, and that You work through me. With You as my anchor, I will not be moved. I love You, Father. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

© Andrea Neumann
October, 2003

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