One day, I was meditating on how rest can be a powerful weapon in the spiritual realm, and Isaiah 30:15 came to mind, “For this is what Adonai Elohim, the Holy One of Isra’el, says: “Returning and resting is what will save you; calmness and confidence will make you strong —but you want none of this!” I often hear people quoting another translation of this Scripture, “in quietness and confidence is your strength.” While these words are a needed reminder, I couldn’t help but be drawn to the last part of that verse—God’s people resisted the call to return (repent) and rest.
As I dug into the context of this Scripture a bit, I was struck by what was happening—Judah is looking to Egypt for deliverance from the Assyrians. They’re not looking to God! In verse 15, God declares that through returning, resting, quietness, and confidence, Judah will be saved from their enemy. While we may be tempted to look at the story of Scripture and wonder how Judah could fail to trust God, I know I can think of plenty of times when choosing to rest and trust what God has spoken to me is far from easy.
It can be difficult to grow up in the system of the world and choose to ignore the seemingly sound wisdom that comes from it. Health experts say this. Financial advisors say that. The news anchor tells us all the things we need to worry about, and the best way to combat those worries. And we can feel crazy for going against what the world is saying (and what everyone else seems to be doing) in favor of how that still, small voice is leading.
Yet when the rubber meets the road, can we remember where our help truly comes from? Now don’t get me wrong. God can and will speak timely wisdom through a health expert, financial advisor, or a news anchor. But there are times we will hear the voice of the LORD giving us clearly direction. He’ll speak a promise, send confirmation, and the Holy Spirit will bear witness with that word.
As our faithful covenant partner, God is there to hold up His end of the covenant by providing salvation when we need it. However, our part in the covenant is to trust in His Word and His infallible character. It isn’t easy. Doubt and fears will arise. Yet there’s no better way to show our love for God than to make our best effort to trust Him.
Isaiah 30:15 (CJB) For this is what Adonai Elohim, the Holy One of Isra’el, says: “Returning and resting is what will save you; calmness and confidence will make you strong —but you want none of this!
Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV) I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
[ “Where Does Our Help Come From?” originally posted on Waiting in the Wings, reposted in its entirety with permission.]