I’ve had a few false starts on this because I tried to make it a little poetic or funny and there was a whole thing about a bulwark and quotes from Gilmore Girls.
But I just want to say what I want to say. Which is this: despair can come in like a flash flood. It’s sometimes unexpected and it’s always hiding an undertow stronger than we want it to be.
But in the face of despair, today I raise a standard of faith. We do not back down and we do not lose hope because it is the anchor of our souls; when the waters get rough and rise, the promises of God hold us secure. They are ALL yes & amen in Jesus.
Healing? Yes & amen.
The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.
~ Isaiah 53:5
Sound mind? Yes & amen.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
~ 2 Timothy 1:7
Joy? Yes & amen.
From Isaiah 61: …to bestow on them… the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
A future & a hope because we are not in the storm waters alone? Yes & amen.
From Isaiah 43: When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.
Peace? Yes & amen.
The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 4:5-7
The Lord is near. Isn’t that simple phrase enough? It is the banner I raise in my soul, over & over again.
Fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
~ Isaiah 41:10
He is with us. Yes & amen.