Support To Stand!

Sometimes our outlook on life is challenged by what we see going on around us. There are times when we may not be able to see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. Things can appear to be going in such opposition to the will of God that we might wonder how it can possibly be worked out. Such was the case during the days of King Ahaz (king of Judah). Therefore God sent Isaiah to encourage him to NOT LOSE FAITH. ( Isaiah 7) Even though the king of Israel had formed an alliance with other foreign kings, that did not spell defeat for Judah. However, there was the need to trust in God.

Is that not also our need today? We may not know how and when God will get things worked out, but do we believe in His power and wisdom to do so? In verses three to four, Isaiah was told to tell Ahaz not to fear. When we become fearful we become unsettled and doubts begin to fill the mind.

In the second half of verse nine we read…
“If you are NOT FIRM IN FAITH, you will NOT BE FIRM AT ALL.” ( Isaiah 7:9b ESV)

Someone has noted that in the Hebrew there is a play on words: will not “confide”, you shall not “abide”. In order to remain standing, the FAITH of Ahaz needed to rest in God. What God said would come about would take place. (note Isaiah 7:3-8) King Ahaz was encouraged to believe it! Even if it did not occur during the life time of Ahaz, he could find comfort in what was to be! In verse eleven we find that Ahaz was even given the opportunity to ask for a sign from God, but he refused. (vs.12) It appears he was ready to take God at His Word. However, it is interesting that a sign was referred to; one with reference to the coming Messiah. (vs.14) If Ahaz had refused to believe he might have given in to the enemy rather than standing firm with God. Perhaps, like Israel, he would have been tempted to form an alliance with an ungodly nation, placing his trust there.

Sometimes, just like Ahaz, we need others to remind us to keep our FAITH in God. When we are unsure it can easily lead to feeling insecure. We must have FAITH! Without it, how can we expect to stand when what we see is so contrary to His Will? May our alliance always be with God as we trust Him to ultimately work things out according to His wisdom and timetable.

Have a great day KNOWING GOD IS STILL OUR BEST ALLY.
Carl

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