"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Isaiah 43:18-21

 January 18

"Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. The wild animals will honor me, the jackals and the ostriches; for I give water in the wilderness, rivers in the desert, to give drink to my chosen people, the people whom I formed for myself so that they might declare my praise." -Isaiah 43:18-21 (NRSV)

In difficult times we can be tempted to dwell on the "good old days" as somehow better or at least more exciting and fulfilling than the place we find ourselves in now. However in a New Year it is wise to take Isaiah's advice in today's scripture seriously. No matter what challenges await or what difficulties you may be mired in, the Bible promises God will not abandon you. God is preparing right now to do wonderful new things in your life! Fear not! And in this process our Lord promises three things:

1. He will give directions, safety and guidance in whatever wilderness you find yourself in.

2. God will provide all you need in any desert in life including water, nourishment, and abundant sustenance and provision.

3. God has formed you to be his own chosen beloved companion formed for his own mission so that your mouth and heart may eventually be filled with Praise when you see his abundant goodness to you.

However, going through rivers of difficulty can either cause us to drown or force us to grow stronger. If you go forward in this New Year in your own strength, you are more likely to drown. Whenever you invite the Holy Spirit to travel with you, God will protect and nourish you through any wilderness at any time of the year and in any season. In this New Year, draw closer to God daily and He will draw closer to you with the comforting assurance that you are never alone. Don't take the Hard Way by yourself but take the Easy Way with God.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, Help me go your way not my way. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: Looking back prevents going forward.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)