Time for another SOAP Notes devotional!
If you aren’t sure what I am referencing,
see this post for a full explanation of this series!

Today’s key scripture is Isaiah 43:18-19

S:  Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

O: Leaving behind the things that we are used to can be uncomfortable—even scary. Especially when we aren’t sure how everything will turn out. When we find ourselves in an unknown place (or the in-between place) on our journey to the new, we often find ourselves longing for the former place and for the comfort of familiarity.

A: In the “wilderness” (the in-between place), it can be tempting to wish for the familiar and long to return to where you started. As humans, we tend to prefer the familiar, even if we know it is not best for us. Known discomfort starts looking better than an unknown outcome.¹ God called you out of that place for a reason, so don’t be tempted to turn back. Place your confidence in Him that He will make a way. We must remember the promise of the better place that God has called us to and keep hope, even when we don’t see it yet or sense it tangibly.² He may call us toward something new before it has fully taken form yet. He is able to prepare it for us (and us for it) while He is yet leading us to it. He promised us He will make a way and wants us to get excited about the work He is doing. He delights in our faith.

P: Father, I thank you that You are able to make all things new and are able to make a way even when all seems hopeless. I thank You that while the places you call us might not always be comfortable, they will always be in our best interest.³ I ask that You increase my trust as I follow Your lead, knowing that You can make a way where there is none and change things that seem impossible at the time.

Notes:

¹ “People have a hard time letting go of their suffering. Out of a fear of the unknown, they prefer suffering that is familiar.” ― Thich Nhat Hanh

² “Now faith is the assurance (title deed, confirmation) of the things hoped for (divinely guaranteed), and the evidence of things not see [the conviction of their reality—faith comprehends as fact what cannot be experienced by the physical senses].” Hebrews 11:1

³ “And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” Romans 8:28

|Kaci