Before January ends, we probably need to talk about fitness. Okay, so I don’t have wonder weights, and my elastic pulley is a bit puny. I do have just enough “aids” (thanks to yard sales) to help with some arm fitness. But none of these provide the marvelous “arm” promises I get from the prophet Isaiah. I read beloved portions of that prophet several times this past year as I got punched down by negatives in my life. If that was your situation, join me in recalling these words:
I have chosen you and not rejected you.
So do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:9b-10)
The first rule in Bible study is context, and this verse addressed a nation that was falling apart
because it had rejected God. Soon, the
southern kingdom
of Judah
He is with us (“I am
with you”)We have a relationship with Him (“I am your God”)
He offers His strength, help and victory.
Long ago, when teaching a young girl’s Sunday school class
this verse, I led them in hand motions for what God does. “Strengthen you” was the bicep pose. “Help you” was an open hand out. “Uphold you” was an open hand reaching
up.”
Later I realized how the hand is the organ of personal
action. The “right hand” of verse 10
implies God’s personal action in making His promises come true. I think that’s why this passage in Isaiah touches
me so deeply. When I am feeling alone
and emotionally beat up, I
need a divine advocate. And there He is,
right behind me, with that strong, righteous right hand that is mightier than
any assault from the enemy. Sometimes, it came in the form of caring, mature
Christians. Other times, it was a
whisper from a devotional book or scripture reading that said, “Jeanne, I will
help you and uphold you. That’s My
promise!”
“Exercising” faith in that promise was a great fitness move
for me!
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