A Prayer for Our Journey Toward the Promise
By Kristine Brown
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” Isaiah 43:2 NIV
Looking back on my life, I see many detours and unexpected exits. Some roads were smooth, others rocky. God allowed the twists and turns to help me grow stronger and teach me to rely fully on him. But sometimes, I set out on my own, thinking I knew what was best for me. I forged my own paths. Yet even on those off-road trips of my own making, God never left me. He always made a way back to the path he intended for me. Maybe that’s why Isaiah 43:2 holds such special meaning. In chapter 43, Isaiah spoke of the beauty of being called God’s people. Even though they suffered because of their disobedience, the Creator of the universe chose them. God reassured the Israelites of his loving care and secured their future.
Although they’d lived in exile, he hadn’t forgotten them. God made a way to return to him. “Do not be afraid, for I am with you; I will bring your children from the east and gather you from the west.” Isaiah 43:5 God’s Word through Isaiah brought hope to his people then, and it still offers hope to us for our lives today. God has already made a way for us to return to him. When we wander, we can trust that he guides us back to the path. When we feel lost, we can trust he is with us. If you’ve attempted to forge your own path or feel like you’re wandering in the wilderness, take heart. God hasn’t left you. Right now, he is paving the way for your blessed return to the One who loves you beyond measure. Run to him today. As we all journey together toward the promise of eternal life, God will guide us every step of the way.
Let’s pray:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for your kindness to your children. Throughout history, you’ve shown favor to your people and reminded them of your constant presence. Thank you for being with us as we journey through life. With all the twists and turns we face, it’s easy to get discouraged. Sometimes we set out on our own and forget to seek your direction. Forgive us, Lord, for trying to do our own thing. Forgive us for not seeking you every day and trusting you to lead us. Help us remember your promise to draw close to us as we draw closer to you. James 4:8 tells us, “Come near to God, and he will come near to you.” May this truth be at the forefront of our minds and hearts. Thank you for being near! When we see a treacherous path ahead, we will rely on you. Only you can see what waits beyond the difficulties in front of us. We will take steps of faith, knowing you are holding, comforting, and protecting us. And when we are afraid, we will remember the promise of Isaiah 43:2. We may have to walk through the fire, but we can know without a doubt you will bring us through. Thank you for your mercy. We give you our best praise. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Daniel_Kay
Related Resource: How to Choose Your One Word for 2026
This month on the How to Study the Bible Podcast, we’re starting a new series called One Word 2026, and it’s meant to be a gentle but intentional way to reflect, respond, and reconnect with God as we begin the year. In this episode, I’m walking you through why I love taking the whole month of January to pause and listen — rather than rushing into resolutions or putting pressure on yourself to “get it all together” by January 1. We’re going to start with Philippians 1:3–11, where Paul reminds us that we can have real confidence because God is still working in us, and He’s not finished.
Then I’m going to share six words I’ve been praying over for our community — six spiritual intentions that I believe reflect the kind of growth God may be inviting us into this year. You don’t have to choose one right away, and you definitely don’t have to force it — but I hope that one of these words will resonate in your spirit and give you a steady anchor for 2026.
This episode is part of our How to Study the Bible Podcast, a show that brings life back to reading the Bible and helps you understand even the hardest parts of Scripture. If this episode helps you know and love God more, be sure to subscribe to the How to Study the Bible Podcast on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
