"I will preserve you."

Last night we read Isaiah 41 for family scripture study. The chapter heading included the phrase "To Israel the Lord says: Ye are my servants; I will preserve you." During my personal scripture study earlier in the day, I had read Alma 44:4 which states "God will support, and keep, and preserve us, so long as we are faithful unto him," so I was excited to see what Isaiah had to say on the subject. I was disappointed to discover that Isaiah doesn't actually use the word "preserve" in Isaiah 41. After discussion, we decided the chapter heading was probably referring to verse 10:

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

During times of trial, I appreciate the fact that I can turn to the Lord and receive strength, help and support to be able to handle the challenges I'm facing. However, preservation seems to be a greater blessing. I'd rather be protected and sheltered - removed from the storm instead of receiving strength to withstand it.I loved the way Michelle put it. She thinks of canned fruit when she hears the word preserve. It's like Heavenly Father seals us in a jar while the commotion of the world swirls around us, and when everything's calmed down he'll take off the lid and let us out.

In the end, I guess it doesn't really matter whether I'm strengthened or preserved, it's up to me to be obedient and faithful. The Lord is always there and he'll bless me with what I truly need.