Finding God’s Presence When the Waters Are Rising

Friends, let’s be real. Life’s challenges can hit hard, but it’s in these gritty moments that we discover profound truths. I’ve been wrestling with Isaiah 43:2, and its powerful reassurance has been like a lifeline:

“When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown! When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” (NLT)

Those two words, “when” and “through,” are deceptively simple, yet they pack a serious punch. It’s not about the hypothetical; it’s about the reality of our journey.

Let’s face it: God doesn’t sugarcoat life’s trials. He knows there will be battles – times when grief is unbearable, anxiety tightens its grip, and uncertainty looms overhead like a thunderstorm. He doesn’t say “if” these challenges arise; He says “when.”

But here’s the powerful truth we must cling to: the same verse that confronts our hardships also promises His unwavering presence.

Think about what Jesus told His disciples: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20 NLT). This isn’t just a fleeting promise; it’s a solid commitment that resonates through the ages, reaching into the trenches of our daily lives.

The Psalmist echoed this as well. “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me” (Psalm 23:4 NLT). Notice how he emphasizes “through.” We’re not stuck; we’re moving with purpose.

Sometimes, that journey “through” can feel endless, can’t it? If you’re in that spot right now, maybe your rivers of difficulty look like:

– A relationship teetering on the brink

– A diagnosis that blindsided you

– A dream that seems to be fading

– A season of waiting that stretches on

The same God who declared to Israel, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine” (Isaiah 43:1 NLT), is speaking those same words over you today.

He’s not just an observer from a distance. As Peter reminds us, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7 NLT). He stands right there in the turbulent waters with you, ensuring you won’t drown; He walks alongside you through the flames, making sure they don’t consume you.

And here’s the kicker: this isn’t just poetic phrasing. This is a promised reality. This is truth about our God, who declares, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you” (Hebrews 13:5 NLT).

Consider Joshua. God commanded him, “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9 NLT). The same God who parted the Red Sea for Moses, protected Daniel in the lions’ den, and walked with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fire is right here with us today, ready to lead us through whatever storms we face. 

Stay strong. Keep going. Your God is so for you!

—Chuck