Read Isaiah 61:1-11. We live in uncertain times. There is a cost-of-living crisis. Some of us are worried about how we will pay our energy bills as the weather turns colder. The war in Ukraine continues. We face political uncertainty.
But God’s promises cut through the uncertainty:
Isaiah 61:3 NLT
To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.
If we can hold on to God’s promises of a crown of beauty instead of ashes, of joyous blessing rather than mourning, of festive praise rather than despair, then even in these dark days, we can be released from our fears and anxieties.
How do we hold on to God’s promises? By relying on God’s power to help us. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is the power that can bring us beauty for ashes, joy instead of grief, and turn our despair into praise.
In uncertainty, the only really certain thing we can reach out for is the joy found in Jesus. Will you reach for him this Christmas?
THINK IT OVER
Think about the following:
How does remembering how God has brought you through uncertainty before help you to reach for joy today?