STRENGTH FOR LIVING

STRENGTH FOR LIVING

Over the last several months, we have been dealing with a great deal of uncertainty and anxiety because of the economic situation. Even in these difficult times, most of us are greatly blessed, compared with the rest of the world. However, there is still a great feeling of insecurity. Security and strength for living cannot be found in material things.

If security and strength are not to be found in material things, where are they? We can find the answer in Isaiah 30:15. "For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: “In returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” But you would not."
Jerusalem was being threatened and the people wanted strength and security. They were making alliances with other nations, hoping these would ward off invasion, and thereby give them strength and security. Isaiah knew these alliances would not bring safety. He tells them where it could be found. He points out two things that are necessary: quietness and confidence. Here in simple words we find the formula for security.

Quietness
Most of us know little or nothing of quietness of life. We are always in a hurry. We may not know where we are going, but we have to get there in a hurry. Even when we are at home, we have to have the television or some other noisemaker going. This could well be described as the age of noise. This is without a doubt one of the reasons for our insecurity. We need to learn to be quiet. Quietness turns our minds toward God. The Psalmist said, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalms 46:10). Quietness and stillness cause sober reflection, and sober thinking leads the mind to God. The quiet person comes to realize that God is the source of strength and security.

Confidence
This is the second part of Isaiah’s formula for strength and security, and he gives them in the proper order. The person that has confidence in God is the one who meditates; the one who is thoughtful. No one can shut himself off from the world, and in with God, without it leading to confidence or trust in Him. The imprint of His hand is upon all that He has made. That hand has never lost a battle, nor failed in its purpose. When this is felt deep down in the soul, it brings confidence; for when I believe this, if I am a Christian, I know that hand holds me and all will be well.

Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Philippians 4:6-7 - 6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Do you want more security in your life? Insert some quietness in your life and place your confidence in God rather than self or material things.
--Lamar