Behold the Word: Dwelling on God’s Promises
Anchored in God’s Word
Advent can be a season of contrasts—a time filled with hope yet often shadowed by uncertainty. How do we hold on to joy when uncertainty lingers? God’s promises offer us a firm foundation, a reminder that He is faithful even in the waiting. What does it mean to hold fast to those promises as we anticipate His peace and restoration?
The Power of God’s Promises
Isaiah 55:10-11 says,
“For just as rain and snow fall from heaven
and do not return there
without saturating the earth
and making it germinate and sprout,
and providing seed to sow
and food to eat,
so my word that comes from my mouth
will not return to me empty,
but it will accomplish what I please
and will prosper in what I send it to do.”
This passage highlights how God’s word always accomplishes His purposes. There are a few applications we can pull from this passage.
God’s Word is reliable
God’s Word is beneficial
God’s Word brings forth fruit
God’s Word has a purpose
The rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return before completing their purpose on earth. In the same way, God’s Word does not return to Him empty. Guzik says, “God’s word has something to accomplish.” His words have a purpose. His words are full of life, and they always succeed.
Just as rain and snow nourish the earth, His promises are ever-present, working in and through our lives long after the Advent season has passed. They reassure us of His reliability, His generosity, and His life-giving purpose.
The Faithfulness of God in the Waiting
In Genesis 15, God promised Abraham descendants as numerous as the stars, despite Sarah’s infertility. It seemed very unlikely, but this was fulfilled with the birth of Isaac, demonstrating that God’s power rises above human limitations. Isaac's birth also affirms God’s ability to bring life and hope where there seemed to be none.
What are some specific promises God has fulfilled in your life, big or small?
Practical Application: Dwelling on His Word
Let’s dwell on His promises together. Choose a specific promise from scripture to focus on this week. Here are a few suggestions:
“I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
“The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing” (Psalm 23:1).
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Reflection Questions
What promises of God have you seen fulfilled in your life?
Which promises do you need to hold onto in this season of waiting?
How can dwelling on God’s promises transform your outlook on waiting?
Trusting the Unchanging Word of God
As we step beyond the season of waiting, these truths remain our guide. God’s Word will never return empty—it accomplishes what He desires in ways that are often beyond our understanding.
May we carry the hope of Advent into every moment, trusting that His Word continues to bring renewal, growth, and fruitfulness to all areas of our lives.