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

This Scripture has long been a favorite of mine. Why? Because I know I have a tendency to fear and be dismayed. At times, my internal sense of inadequacy to meet the challenges in front of me can take over. The temptation to lose heart, to be discouraged, to fear the enemy, can have a paralyzing effect on my soul.

Fellow educator, can you relate?

But, I am learning to counter this fear and dismay with what God says to me…

I am with you.
I am your God.
I will strengthen you.
I will help you.
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

If God had only said “I am with you,” that would have been enough. That would be enough to dispel all my feelings of fear and dismay. When I know that God is with me, it makes all the difference and it changes everything. But God doesn’t stop there. He elaborates by telling us, “I am your God.” He also promises to strengthen us, help us, and uphold us with His righteous right hand. What mighty promises the living God has made to us!

Lord, I will not fear, because You are with me. I will not be dismayed, for You are my God. You will strengthen me! You will help me! You will uphold me with Your righteous right hand! Thank you, Lord!

Copyright Gregg Beecher.

Gregg Beecher is a member and a second-grade teacher in Aztec, New Mexico.