The Christian’s God is the God of the Holy Scriptures. “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16,17). The God of heaven is He “who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever” (Psalm 146:6). There is no other God. “For I am God and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose” (Isaiah 46:9,10).
The Christian’s God also loves and cares for His people who have put their faith and trust in Him. He declares His concern and care for his people. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God” (Isaiah 41:10). What comforting words of assurance from the Almighty, whose presence and relationship are guaranteed to be with us. And because of our relationship with God, we have absolutely nothing to fear.
“Do not fear” is God’s reliable word to us—now and in the future. God is fully aware and is in control of every situation we face. Our part is to “let go and let God.” King David exclaimed, “I sought the LORD, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4). Because of our relationship with God, we have absolutely nothing to fear. Fear and anxiety get us nowhere. At the onset of this condition, we must seek divine intervention. The Bible says, “The Lord us at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let you requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:5-7).
“Be not dismayed, for I am your God” To be dismayed means to become ‘disheartened and discouraged.’ One can overcome this feeling by fully trusting God and allowing Him to have full control of the situation. God, who is the great “I am,” is of great significance. When God revealed Himself to Moses, He said, “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14), meaning He is self-existent, eternal, and unchangeable. On this basis, we can’t be disheartened or discouraged. The Christian’s hope and trust is in God and our expectation is from Him.
“I will strengthen you” You and I cannot accomplish much in our human strength. We need divine strength, especially during times of discouragement and uncertainty. David was distressed when his life was in danger.” The Bible says, “David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him . . . But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God” (1 Samuel 30:6). This is exactly what we must do. Not surprising God says “I will strengthen you.” And it follows immediately after God declares, “I am your God.” Let’s not forget “God is our refuge and strength, a very present in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).
“I will help you” You and I need God’s divine help in every circumstance. “My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:2). Moses told Israel, “Be strong and courageous . . . for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). God cannot deny His word. As we face various challenges and trials of every kind, we are assured of God’s help. He is “a present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). Let us therefore take courage and completely rely on His help. “Our God, our help in ages past, our hope for years to come,” begins that famous hymn by Isaac Watts.
“I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Not only will God strengthen and help us, we have His blessed assurance that He will uphold us with His righteous right hand. This means God will support and sustain us through the entire process. Take heart, my beloved, be strong and very courageous. Have faith in Almighty God who is still on the throne. Although trials and tribulations oppress us and various burdens distress us, God will never abandon His own. We can confidently claim His precious promises and leave the outcome to Him.
For I am your God and will still give you aid.
I’ll strengthen you, help you, cause you to stand,
Upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand”