Isaiah 43:1-3 – “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!  2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.  3 “For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior;” NASB

All of us face times of trepidation and experience times of deep concern. There are times when we are fearful.  Many of those times we handle the situations reflecting on the promises of God.  We utilize rational thinking or perseverance and receive His peace.  Yet, there are times when we are overwhelmed and need a comforting touch from the Master. 

A few years ago, on the night before I visited an Orthopedic surgeon, I had difficulty sleeping.  During the night the hip pain increased to almost unbearable levels.  I don’t know if it was stress if I was laying wrong, or what the problem was but by 4 AM I was up taking a shower, and getting dressed for my day.  That experience gave me a significant amount of time to pray, meditate on the things of God, and talk to the Father about my situation! 

The two doctors I have seen agreed on the likely ultimate treatment just had differing opinions as to the steps to that achieve that end.  I had been waiting for the time to see the specialist who was supposed to the “the man” regarding hip replacement in this area.  That was his primary specialty.  Did that relieve my anxiety, No!  I was holding on to the Lord for His ultimate and complete healing.  My attitude was that if He chose to use a medical practitioner to accomplish that, I was okay with that.  However, it was not my preference. 

As my spirit calmed down and I read in Isaiah.  I came to Chapter 43 and the words so familiar just leaped off the page at me.  I could hear the Holy Spirit saying, “Son, why are you anxious and allowing an element of fear to enter your heart.  We’ve been through much worse than this and have I ever failed you?”  Of course, the answer is a resounding NO!  He said, “You’ve been through troubled waters even to the point of death and I was there.  You’ve been through the fire where you despaired of life and I was there.  What would make you even consider that I won’t be there this time?” 

It was in a moment of humble repentance, that I cried out to the Lord and peace flooded my heart, mind, and soul.  I did not know what would take place, but I knew that God was in control.  I knew that I was in His hands and as I listen to the direction of His Spirit, I knew that everything was going to be okay!   As I prepared for the evaluation from the “top dog” in the specialty I did so with Complete Peace because I experienced God’s “comfort in a time of trouble.” 

I am always grateful for God’s comfort.  I knew then and know that the peace I that flows out of His love and the prayers of friends are always instrumental in bringing about God’s perfect plan. 

I pray God’s Blessings upon you as you embark on another day’s journey in Jesus!