I was up early this morning reading from Isaiah chapter 41 and I was meditating on the truth and application of verse 41:10, “Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” In this passage God is promising that His help is ever present for His people; He is always near for those who depend on Him. As I was reflecting on such things, one of our little dachshunds started to go out of the doggie door. About that time he heard a big dog next door let out a couple of deep, loud barks. I heard my dog stop halfway through the doggie door and I knew he was going to inch his way back into the safety of the house. This little dog acts pretty tough when we are out on a walk together, but when he is on his own he can scare pretty easily. I got up from the couch and walked to the door and said, “It’s okay. Let’s go outside.” We went outside together, even though that neighbor dog was still carrying on.

My dog didn’t mind going outside, as long as he didn’t have to go out there alone. I can relate to that. And that is why I appreciate the principle of Isaiah 41:10 so very much. See, when it comes to difficult or intimidating situations or even being a little scared sometimes, I figure I can be a lot like my little dog. When I forget about the One who walks with me, I forget to walk by faith. When I forget that I have somebody who promises to help me, I forget to be brave and push forward in the midst of scary or uncomfortable circumstances. Yes, I am thankful for God’s word. It reminds me not to fear; it reminds me that God is with me.