There are times in our lives when we go through enormous stress and anxiety about our future.  Employment uncertainty, financial instability, precarious health, marriage or family trouble and/or broken friendships may shake us to the core.  Try as we may to not worry, to redirect our minds and settle the nervous flutter in our stomachs, we meet with only limited success.

It is during such times that the written Word of God is so essential and powerful.  Reassurances of God’s presence, strength, and guidance make it possible for us to get through the troubled times.  And that is why regular Bible reading is so important during peaceful times.  Don’t wait until hard times come to seek the counsel of God.  Store up reservoirs of instruction, hope, encouragement, correction, and peace through regular meditation upon God’s Word during the good times, the times when we think we need it least.

Remember that whoever or whatever is coming against you right now, God’s hand is more powerful than any adversary you may be encountering.  He is all powerful and is ever present to defend, empower, and give victory to you, His child.  So, whether you are in the midst of a stressful time right now or enjoying a time of personal peace and victory, consider the following powerful assurances from our God:

Exodus 15:6  “Your right hand, O Lord, was majestic in power.  Your right hand, Lord, shattered the enemy.”

Psalm 17:6-7 “I call on you, O God, for You will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.  Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you.”

Psalm 20:6 “Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He answers him from His holy heaven with the saving power of His right hand.”

Psalm 44:3 “It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand …for you loved them.”

Psalm 48:10 “Like your name, O God, Your praise reaches to the ends of the earth your right hand is filled with righteousness.”

Psalm 60:5 “Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered.”

Psalm 98:1 “Sing to the Lord a new song; for He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have worked salvation for Him.”

Psalm 118:14-16 “The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous; ‘The Lord’s right hand has done mighty things! The Lord’s right hand is lifted high; the Lords’ right hand has done mighty things!’”

Isaiah 41:9b-10 “(God) said, ‘You are my servant;’ I have chosen you and have not rejected you.  So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Reach out and grab hold of the hand of God.  He will lift you up!

Pastor Bob McQuaid