When Fear of the Future Gets Loud - Your Nightly Prayer - September 25
When Fear of the Future Gets Loud
TONIGHT’S SCRIPTURE
For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you (Isaiah 41:13, NIV)
SOMETHING TO PONDER
Our lives are marked by stories. The ones we tell ourselves about ourselves, and about others. The ones we hear from others, whether true or not. And the ones that narrate our future–what we plan to do with the time we have been given. But sometimes our feelings push too much of the narrative. When life is difficult or we become overwhelmed with doubt, the stories we accept as truth are often characterized by fear.
Israel had every reason to be afraid. Not only would Israel be attacked, but the people would be sent into exile. They would face a future scattered throughout Babylon, away from their homeland and the temple of their God (which would be destroyed). What other future could they imagine but one filled with even more trouble?
But the Lord reminded His people, through the prophet Isaiah, that He was with them. Though they would be sent far away, they would eventually return because God would gather them and bring them home. The gods of Babylon might seem mighty, but Yahweh, the God of Israel, is the only true Lord (Isaiah 41:21-29). He would be their help, hope, and strength in their exile.
The promise that God gave to Israel still applies to us today. The same Lord who encouraged them not to fear is the same One who walks with us today. He goes before us and is already present in our unknown future (Deuteronomy 31:8). Nothing, not even the fears of tomorrow, can separate us from His loving care (Romans 8:35-39).
Let us listen to God as He narrates our story, for He is the only One who can do so truly and fully. He holds our hand and enables us to walk with courage.
YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER
My Help and Hope in times of trouble, I give you my worries and concerns about the future. Life is unpredictable, and, try as I may, I cannot prepare for or prevent any and every circumstance. Though my future is uncertain, my trust in You remains. You promised to be with Israel in exile, strengthening them with promises and reminders of Your Presence. So, tonight, I cling to that ancient promise, remembering that you hold my hand. With you by my side, I do not need to fear. Amen.
THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON
1 A time when someone held your hand (i.e., your mother or grandparent, a nurse during a painful procedure, or a friend after painful news). How does this memory add to your understanding of God’s promise in today’s verse?
2 An image or item that encapsulates courage for you. What is it, and how might placing that item or picture near you inspire greater courage?
3 A story in the Bible that reminds you of God’s faithfulness and loving care. Which parts highlight God’s character the most, and why? In what way could you read and meditate on this story in the coming week?
Reflect on tonight’s prayer and share how God met you there. Join the Your Nightly Prayer discussion on the Crosswalk Forum.
GO DEEPER:
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Related Resource: Praying Through Psalm 68: When God is Bigger Than Your Problems!
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Join Jaime on the Praying Christian Women Podcast for an inspiring devotional on Psalm 68, a triumphant and powerful psalm that celebrates the unmatched bigness of God and reminds us that no earthly enemy or obstacle stands a chance against Him. If this episode helps you connect with God through prayer, be sure to follow Praying Christian Women on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
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