December 9

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze. — Isa 43:2 BSB

How many of God's dear saints, when going through tribulation and sorrow, have experienced the fulfillment of this gracious promise: “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you”? There is a water that everyone must pass through—the deep and rapid Jordan, which symbolizes death. How dark and gloomy these waters can seem to many of God's children, who live in constant fear of death, as the Scripture says, "Who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." But often, the fear of these waters is worse than the reality. When the time comes to face them, when their feet touch the water's edge, and it seems the waters will rise higher and higher, the Lord suddenly appears with His power and presence. Then the waters recede, and He speaks peace to the soul. On a dying bed, He reveals Christ’s love, grace, and blood, removing doubts and fears that have tormented for years. He brings a calm and sweet peace to the heart, assuring the soul that all is well, both in time and eternity.