Do not be dismayed—don’t gaze anxiously about, looking for a solution (implication being by our own means). Dismayed carries the meaning of being nonplussed and bewildered. We have a God with many resources that can be drawn on, but we have to get over there to receive them.

Fear and dismay are often the first two places we fall into; I’d call it the thrashing around stage of a problem. On the other side of these two, however long it takes us to get through them, is the Lord and what He brings to the situation.

I will strengthen you—make you alert, mentally courageous, steadfast, give you an undaunted spirit to strengthen feeble knees.

I will help you—surround, protect, bring practical aid and comfort in the struggle.

I will uphold you—take hold of you, hold you up, support, sustain, and maintain you.

Fear and dismay can be stuck places, from which we wonder where God is. He’s on the other side of our focus on fear and dismay, which describe how our own capacity feels.

It’s critical that we push through the first two and into the five alternatives with which He is there to meet us: huddled together with Him, drawing on God resources, and so being strengthened, helped and upheld.

What an offer! Or is it a command?

Suzan welcomes your email comments at: suzanpcm@verizon.net