Assembly of God
By Norma Ballinger
LW contributor
The following is hopefully an encouragement in these troubled times to remember that God is in charge. He is the one who decides the destiny of nations; security is for God to grant. The 40th chapter of Isaiah truly brings this home. As Isaiah is offering comfort to the people of Israel in their time of bondage, God is offering us hope also.
• Godiseternal(verse8): “ The grass withers and the flower falls, but the word of our God stands forever.”
• God is sovereign (verse 10):
“See, the sovereign Lord comes with power, and his arm rules for him, and his recompense accompanies him.”
• God is tender (verse 11): “He tends his flock like a shepherd, He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart, he gently leads those that have young.”
• God is full of promise (verses 29- 30): “He gives strength to the weary, and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope (wait) in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
Why does God want us to wait? All too often our eyes are so glued on the destination, we neglect the journey itself. God wants to teach us and to mold us so we are prepared. What should we do while waiting: trust, pursue faith, serve others, be watchful and expectant and be grateful. Take time to be still before God, falling more deeply in love with him.
