I Will Not Be Shaken

Scripture

Isaiah 7: 2“so the hearts of Ahaz and his people were shaken, as the trees of the forest are shaken by the wind.”9 “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.”

Observation

Ahaz the king of Judah was told that Israel and Aram were planning to invade and destroy his land once again. As he had been defeated by them before it was easy for him to lose heart and doubt that God would give them victory this time. I believe the wind in the passage above refers to this doubt, which “shook their hearts.” The analogy of wind for doubt is used in James 1:6 as well. “because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.” If Ahaz and his people are shaken by the wind then what will happen when the real storm comes? Isaiah reminds Ahaz that God has promised victory to them. He states a clear warning that if Ahaz does not stand firm in his faith of God’s promise to come through, then at the end of this battle he will not stand at all.

Application

As I reflect on this warning to remain rooted in God’s promises in times of conflict I am reminded of the constant temptation and ease to doubt God’s faithfulness. When difficult times and struggles face me I need to trust in the victory that God has promised me. They will be my standing ground, what keeps me upright in the midst of the battle while the anxiety and stress of trying to win on my own, without trusting God will bring me down. When I remain firm in my faith, in heart and in action, and do not let the winds of doubt sway me, then I can stand assured that in difficult times, I will always remain standing.

Prayer

Father thank you that you always remain faithful. When I am swayed by doubt your promises remain sure. Even in the dimmest looking circumstance when my enemies try to take me down once again I can stand assured that you will come through. Help me to set my roots in your solid ground and know your promises through belief and understanding of your word-Strengthen my trust in you. I will try to take doubts captive and not let them shake my faith.

Tess