Here in the Southeast, we’ve had a difficult couple of weeks. Many areas will require weeks or even months before normality can recover from Hurricane Helene, which caused an amazing amount of damage to much of the region. Wind destruction is common, and a lot of places are dealing with the effects of flood.
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On Sunday night, as I headed toward a small party at church, I crossed the bridge that crosses the Alcovy River next to an aged coach bridge. The valley was off higher than I’ve seen it in a while, but I’m aware that additional locations far away have things worse than I may possibly imagine. I ask that everyone who is dealing with the aftereffects of Helene keep in my prayers.
On top of Helene’s indignation, metro Atlanta is dealing with fuel leaks, water key falls, and a chemical plant fireplace. It’s enough to make you wonder what’s going on — and who’s in command.
God’s Word reminds us Who’s in command. This section, Isaiah 43: 1-3a, is one warning that I’ve seen many instances during these tough past some time:
But then so says the Lord,  ,
he who created you, O Jacob,  ,
he who formed you, O Israel:  ,
” Fear not, for I have redeemed you,  ,
I have called you by name, you are mine.  ,
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you,  ,
and through the river, they may not destroy you,  ,
when you walk through fireplace you may not be burned,  ,
and the flame wo n’t burn in you.  ,
For I am the Lord your God,  ,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Lucy Kemp, the girl of Gov. Brian Kemp (R-Ga. ), writes devotions for subscribers to the governor’s email list. Immediately after Helene arrived, she wrote a passion based on this verse ( the emphasis is in the initial ):
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God’s protection serves as the most important warning to us at this moment. He can withstand any surprise better.  ,
The Lord promises to accompany us through these hurricanes, both physically and metaphorically, throughout this career. He will guide us ahead of us and stand beside us as we navigate them, and He promises that we wo n’t be by ourselves. What a Savior!
Move on Him and know that He is sovereign despite the winds.
The ESV Study Bible cross-references this verse to Isaiah 41: 10, in which God promises”, fear hardly, for I am with you, get not disappointed, for I am your God, I will develop you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my pious right hand.”
Associated:  , Sunday Thoughts: The Resurrection and the Hope of God’s Independence
The Psalm makes the following point:
God is our protection and strength,  ,
a pretty provide support in trouble.  ,
Therefore, we wo n’t be afraid even as the earth sways.
though the hills been pushed into the sea’s core
though its lakes thunder and foam, though the peaks tremble at its swelling.
Psalm 46: 1-3 ( ESV )
According to Amanda Idleman at Bible Study Tools,” The Scriptures paint a picture of a God who walks with us and before us” ( Deuteronomy 31: 8 ). In part because of his safe, motherlike motherlike ability to cover us like a bird covers its birds with feathers ( Hymn 91: 4). a God who holds us with his right hand and has our names written on his hands ( Isaiah 49: 16 ). He is with us and provides for whatever difficulties we may encounter in this career.
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The earth has always been a dangerous place, and we encounter challenges every day. But we’re never only. God is republic, He’s in power, and He takes care of His individuals.
Days before He went to the bridge, Jesus told His apostles”, I have said these things to you, that in me you may have harmony. In the world you will have hardship. But take heart, I have overcome the world “( John 16: 33, ESV).  ,
The God Who conquered death, heaven, and the tomb has you in His hands. Never neglect that, even when the circumstances seem hopeless and challenges pile up.