For many, the last couple years may feel as if we are wandering in a wilderness. Or caught in a repetitive, never-ending loop. We may yearn for something new. Something brighter. Something hopeful.

(As I write this, the current college football championship winner has yet to be decided, and I, for one, am ready for something new. But I digress.)

During these past few years, many have experienced painful seasons and trying situations. Some are still in the midst of that pain. Some have just embarked on a painful journey.

We firmly believe God loves us. We hold tightly to his promise to never leave or forsake us. We trust in his Sovereignty and grace.

Still.

When the hard hits and we struggle, it’s sometimes easier to let go of our dreams than it is to push through with the expectation of a brighter day. At times we may find it easier to give in to our circumstances than it is to stand strong through them.

Recently, I read a devotion from Susie Larson’s Prevail. Susie said, when we feel stuck, we must make the distinction between surrendering to our circumstances and surrendering to God in our circumstances. One camps in the valley with no hope for change. The other declares, “This place does not define me. God will make a way where there is no way.”

In Isaiah 43 God says:

• Remember who created you.
• See, you have nothing to fear. I, who made you, will take you back. I have chosen you, named you as My own.
• When you face stormy seas I will be there with you with endurance and calm; you will not be engulfed in raging rivers.
• If it seems like you’re walking through fire with flames licking at your limbs, keep going; you won’t be burned.
• Because I, the Eternal One, am your God. I am the Holy One of Israel, and I will save you.
• So don’t be afraid. I am here.
• This is what the Eternal One says, the One who does the impossible, the One who makes a path through the sea, a smooth road through tumultuous waters.

Feel like you’re wandering in a wilderness?

Hold on. Watch closely. God is preparing something new. It’s happening even now. You’re about to see it. He is preparing a way through the desert. Waters will flow where there were none before.

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Watch closely: I am preparing something new; it’s happening now, even as I speak, and you’re about to see it. I am preparing a way through the desert; Waters will flow where there had been none. Isaiah 43:19 (VOICE)

You can find my January Inspire a Fire post here. Please stop by and read it.

I wish you well.

Sandy

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Photo by Janosch Diggelmann on Unsplash