A Truly Wonderful Promise.
by Judith Whitehead
This year, so far, is what I can only describe as unsettled for us as a family. With health issues to contend with, and other problems that have arisen, plus dear friends who have faced difficult medical issues, and our lovely sixteen-year-old dog who is struggling with his mobility due to old age (112 years old, if he was a human being), I admit I have had times when I have felt very stressed, tearful and weary.
Yet the above verse from the book of Isaiah has been a tremendous help, along with so many other wonderful promises in God's word.
Around two months ago, I was asked if I would share my life story and how I came to faith, with a group of around sixty people who meet weekly at church. This invitation came at a time when I already felt I had enough on my plate, but I was determined not to be defeated, although, as the time drew near for the date set for me to share with them, I was having times of panic about it.
Usually, when I woke up in the middle of the night, I considered cancelling or postponing the date. I am not an ‘up front’ sort of person, who is confident speaking to a group of people. But I knew I needed to trust the Lord, who is always faithful. So, I chose to hold on to the promise that God would be with me and see me through. I kept repeating the above verse in Isaiah to myself, remembering that this verse can be received as a personal promise. And I can truly say that, apart from a fleeting moment of panic at the beginning, God carried me through the next fifteen minutes in a truly remarkable way.
I chose a song by John Pantry titled: ‘You carried me’ to be played on You Tube after I finished speaking. It is based on the ‘footprints in the sand’, which is often presented on bookmarks and posters.
I think, if I had to choose a favourite Bible verse, Isaiah 41:10 would be the one, along with Isaiah 41:13, which is similar. ‘For I am the Lord, your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, “Do not fear, I will help you.”’
No matter what we are facing in life, isn’t it good to know that our God will always be with us? We don't have to go it alone, hoping for the best, or crossing our fingers hoping that things will turn out well for us and our loved ones. Some of the problems we have faced as a family have improved, while some remain ongoing, and possibly will do for some time yet.
I’d like to share two more truly wonderful promises that I have found really helpful when facing difficulties:
‘God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble’ (Psalm 46:1).
‘The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe’ (Proverbs 18:10).
Judith Whitehead Judith is married to Dougie and they have one son. Judith loves spending time with her family, including two gorgeous grandchildren and being outdoors walking in the countryside. Judith lives locally to Ellel Grange and is a part of the creativity team at Ellel Grange. Judith has a deep desire to encourage others and to help believers and unbelievers come to a place of knowing God personally and deeply for themselves.
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