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REFLECTION

The theme for our reflection is “Be encouraged: God will be with you.” “Be encouraged: God will be with you” means that despite feeling alone or facing struggles, a person can find reassurance in the belief that God is present with them, offering support, protection, and a sense of purpose. We shall reflect on the fact that, irrespective of our challenging situations, we are not alone; our covenant-keeping and dependable God is with us.

Beloved in the Lord, in our troubles and challenges, we are greatly encouraged that we are not alone; God is with us. When Isaiah 41 was written, the Israelites were in exile in Babylon, a time when they had been displaced from their homeland and were living under foreign oppression. The prophet Isaiah spoke this passage to them to offer comfort and reassurance that God was still with them and would provide strength and help. “Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. 13 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. 14 Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I myself will help you,” declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. (Isaiah 41:12-14) Dear child of God, you may also find yourself in exile and in a discomforting situation of a kind and may be showing signs of despair. You may have exiled yourself into poverty, sickness, marital unfaithfulness and a life of independence without God, for which you feel empty and hopeless like the Israelites. The Lord is reassuring you through the Prophet Isaiah that He is with you and will be your helper and redeemer. It is for this reason, He ultimately sent Jesus into the world to fulfil His promise in the lives of those who will believe Him and accept Him as their Lord and Saviour (John 3:16-17) In our case, Jesus has ultimately assured us that “…the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:26-27) The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives gives us power and the ability to triumph over any challenging situation in our lives to the glory of God. All we are required to do is to trust God and surrender all our troubles to Him through Jesus, our Lord and Saviour.

In summary, we have been reminded to trust our covenant-keeping and dependable God even in our deepest pit of sorrow and challenges, for He cares and will redeem us. Shalom.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank you for the promise of your immediate presence. Forgive me for the times I have worried as if you were not my God. Today, I surrender my fear, my weakness, and my burdens to your mighty right hand. Help me to be encouraged by your power and to walk in the victory you have already secured. Amen.