July 26 – Reading 207

july 26 – Reading 207

by Tim Satryan | July 26

“HAS GOD FORGOTTEN ME?”
(Isaiah 48:1 – 51:23)

“The LORD has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me.” – Isaiah 49:14

We’ve all been there at one time or another. Things happen in our life, and it just feels like the heavens are brass when you pray. It seems like God is far, far away. And, the enemy wants to whisper to you that God has forgotten all about you. 

This is the exact condition of Israel, when the prophet Isaiah shares that “Zion said, ‘the Lord has forsaken me; my Lord has forgotten me.” (49:14) But, thankfully, Isaiah continues with the voice of the Lord to His people. He illustrates first with the example of a mother, who could not of course ever forget her child (:15). He further uses the example of a builder, with Israel engraved on the palm of His hand (:16). He speaks of a warrior who rescues the captive. (:24-26)

My friend, when it seems dark all around you, know that God has not forsaken you, nor could He! The writer of Hebrews 13:5 actually quotes Deuteronomy 31:6-8, saying “I will never leave you nor forsake you!” God is like a friend who sticks closer than a brother! (Proverbs 18:24)  If this is a difficult time for you, know that “God is your refuge and your strength, a very present help in trouble!” (Psalm 46:1)

Simple Truth:
When all seems dark and distant, know that God is alive and is your light!

Reflections & Application: 

• When you start to go down the “rabbit hole of negativity,” step back and recognize that God has not, now will He ever, forsake you!

   

• I distinctly recall a very difficult time in my life, and a treasured pastor said to me that “this has come to pass, not to stay!” He prayed for me, and it lifted me up. I have shared the same sentiment to countless others through the years!

   

• As the hymn of old says, “When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on His unchanging grace… when all around my soul gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.” On Christ, the Solid Rock I stand!

Closing Prayer…
Heavenly Father, help me to see Your light, even in the midst of surrounding darkness. Help me to trust in You, even when things around me seem to be falling apart. I will keep my faith in You and my eyes on Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.