From J. C. Philpot's Daily Portions
December 9 "When you go through deep waters, I will be with you."
Isaiah 43:2 How many of the dear saints of God, when they have been
brought into tribulation and sorrow, have found the fulfillment of this most
gracious promise! And is there not one of these waters through which all
must go--that deep and rapid Jordan (death) which every one must pass
through? How dark and gloomy those waters have appeared to the eyes of many
a child of God, in whom is continually fulfilled the experience of the
words, "Who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to
bondage." But how often have these waters only been terrible in prospect, in
anticipation. How different has been the reality. When he comes down to the
river's bank and his feet dip in these waters, and it appears as though they
would rise higher and higher, the Lord suddenly appears in his power and
presence, and then the water sinks. He speaks a word of peace to his soul
upon a dying bed--reveals Christ in his love and grace and blood--removes
those doubts, fears, and disturbing thoughts which have perplexed him for
years, and brings into his heart a holy calm, a sweet peace, assuring him
that all is well with him, both for time and eternity. Has he not then the
fulfillment of the promise, "When you go through deep waters, I will be with
you"?