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 41:10 NIV
Strengthen
One of the newest and most robust association of nations is known as ASEAN – The Association of Southeast Asia Nations. It includes such nations as the Philippines, Cambodia, Lao, Myanmar and Cambodia, and five others. Last November, the Canadian government announced “The partnership between Canada and ASEAN is rooted in deep ties between our peoples, trade, and diplomatic ties. Canada is committed to further strengthening this partnership by advancing shared priorities – including peace, security, and stability, sustainable development, and trade and investment – in the Indo-Pacific.”
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Human beings are so weak, both physically and spiritually. We read about that every day in our newspapers. How many leaders lately, in the world of politics and religion, have had to step down in embarrassment because of something they did or said that brought shame to them, their leadership and their families. Decades of integrity can be ruined through one bad sinful act, or indiscretion. There is no excuse for this in the lives of the followers of Jesus. The prophet wrote this in Isaiah 41:10: “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.” We Christ-followers need to know ourselves well enough to know where our spiritual armour is thin, and continually seek the Lord’s strength in those areas of our lives. We do not walk in fear of failure, but instead, standing on this promise, we put our trust in God’s provision and strength. He wants us to walk in victory, and promises to provide all we need to do so. He will uphold you – trust Him to do so.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley