The Bible contains thousands of promises from God to mankind. There are promises about addiction (Psalm 50:15), deliverance from demonic torment (Psalm 34:7), depression (Psalm 9:9), family (Exodus 20:12), fear (Exodus 14:4), being filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13), finances (Malachi 3:10), forgiveness (Mark 11:25), guidance (John 16:13), health (James 5:14), marriage (Psalm 68:6), and many more issues.

God promises us so much, but we miss out, because we don’t know God’s Word. When we face an obstacle, we struggle to get around it, because we try to handle it alone, forgetting the promises. However, when we know that God has given us a promise along the way, we can hold onto that, and get through the hardship.

Paul held onto God’s promises with his whole being. He lived that way completely and indeed, that is why he could face one crisis after the other: ²⁴The One who called you is completely dependable. If he said it, he’ll do it!

During my devotions one morning I felt that I had to pray for each and every Crossroads reader. But how can you pray for so many people by name? Then I had a plan: Use the available technology.

So, through all the turmoil of life, this is a prayer for you:

May God be with you everywhere you go today. May He take your hand and help you face all the challenges before you. As it says in Isaiah 43: “Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you. I’ve called your name. You’re mine. When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down.“

You may ask why God makes such an effort with us. In verses 4-5 God says: “When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end— Because I am God, your personal God, The Holy of Israel, your Savior.“

Hold onto this today!

This prayer is about the promise that God gives us in Isaiah 43. And it is exactly the same promise that Paul repeats here in 1 Thessalonians. In response to this I received more than 4 000 e-mails in two days. Struggling people seeing a glimmer of light again. People who start hoping again, because they heard God’s promise again.

In hard times I too catch myself only focusing on the crisis right in front of me. It’s as if I can’t remember or remind myself of God’s promises. I try to struggle along on my own.

How stupid can you be? God has given us thousands of promises. We simply need to look them up. We must say them out loud so that they can become part of us again. So that we can lean on them. So that God’s promises can help us through the hardship.

Scripture

1 Thessalonians 5:23-28

Reflection

What are you struggling with?

Do you know God’s promises?

What are you holding onto now?

Prayer

Lord, I’m struggling. I know there are many promises in your Word. Please help me to make them part of my life. I believe that You are always with me. Amen.