Dismayed But Not Destroyed

Dismayed but not destroyed

ISAIAH 16

Have you ever had a hard season in life? Me too! Sometimes life is hard due to my choices,

sometimes it is the situations around me.

This is a hard Chapter. It has so much destruction and sadness in it. The destruction came

from people. They have made poor choices, been stubborn and now the consequences are

there, staring them in the face.

We might feel this way too. Frightened, dismayed, and not sure what to do. Isaiah describes it as,

“……The towns and people of Moab are at a loss, New-hatched birds knocked from the nest, fluttering helplessly At the banks of the Arnon River, unable to cross….”

Isaiah 16:2 MSG

I can see myself in this. Fluttering around helpless and lost, unsure of where to go where I can be safe.

In the middle of this Chapter of lament, we see a promise.

”Let our refugees stay among you. Hide them from our enemies until the terror is past.”

When oppression and destruction have ended and enemy raiders have disappeared, then God will establish one of David’s descendants as king. He will rule with mercy and truth. He will always do what is just and be eager to do what is right.“

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭16:4-5 NLT

God is right here with us, establishing His kingdom. If we clean out the things that destroy us, we give more room for Him to be King in our lives.

During this time of year, we prepare for Easter. It is a time of clearing the way. Jesus came to

set us free. At times, our worst enemy is ourselves. When we feel lost and dismayed, the best thing we can do is surrender to Him. He will lift us up. He will make a way for us.

”We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not

destroyed.“

‭‭2 Corinthians‬ ‭4‬:‭9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Prayer:Jesus, thank you for never abandoning us. Thank you for correcting us and leading us in Your ways. When I feel lost, I know you are here with me. Your presence gives me peace and strength. Thank you for your never-ending love and grace. Lead me and I will follow.

Amen