“My people, do not be afraid,
people of Israel, do not be terrified.
I will rescue you from that faraway land,
from the land where you are prisoners.
You will come back home and live in peace;
you will be secure, and no one will make you afraid.”
Jeremiah 46:27 (Good News Translation)
In this verse, a few keywords stick out to me that reveal some beautiful characteristics of God. Words like “rescue,” “home,” “peace” and “secure.”
The people of Israel are living in tough times, and the prophet Jeremiah doesn’t have any easy job as God’s ambassador. He’s reminding these people who have been oppressed by their nation that God is bigger and the story isn’t over yet. They have to keep the faith.
When we go through tough times, it’s so easy to focus on all the chaos and struggles around us. The world may even encourage us to do so, but God calls us to set our eyes on something bigger:
Himself.
When hardship comes into our lives, we have the option to set our eyes on the problem, or on Jesus. To be rescued by him, dwelling in his comfort with peace and security. We get to call on his name and ask him to fight our battles. He protects us and comforts us in our affliction.
But this can be easier said than done! It’s so natural to get caught up in our own hardships and forget we even have this awesome God to fight our battles for us. So, here are a couple questions for you as you go throughout this week:
Questions for reflection:
- Who in your life can remind you of God’s goodness in fighting your battles? How can you also do the same for them? We are better together!
- God is with us in every battle. Think of a previous battle or a current battle you’ve gone through and ask God where he was or is in this current situation. Mediate on that and hIs goodness of how he never leaves us alone!