Divided

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. – Isaiah 41:10

The Civil War was the epitome of states divided and claimed more lives than any conflict since that the United States has been involved in. Once it ended in 1865, records show that within months, 1,000 freed slaves gathered in Charleston, South Carolina to commemorate the significance of the ones who had died. By 1868, the 30^th day of May was designated as a national day of recognition and somber recollection of those who had given their lives in the war.

In the Old Testament, there was also division in the ranks. God’s chosen people, Israel, had fought many battles against wicked people who worshiped idols, and the Lord had been their shield and defender. Their welfare had totally depended on God, yet they divided their allegiance between Him and idols. Isaiah and other prophets were sent to declare God’s warnings of judgment alongside messages of His patience, His mercy, His continued love, and care for them. Though enemies would come against them, seven times Isaiah declared, “Fear not!” (Isaiah 41-44); Jehovah was their God who would be with them.

Circumstances will not always be pleasant and difficulties will be challenging. As commentator Warren Wiersbe wrote, if you look at God through the lens of your situation, “He will seem small and very far away; but if by faith you look at your circumstances through God, He will draw very near and reveal His greatness to you.” In these troubled times in this nation, draw near to God in prayer for all those who serve in government and, specifically today, for those serving in the military. The Lord is Protector, Comforter, and Encourager for those who are faithful.