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. For I am the
Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...
We must be careful. These verses are NOT promises to an individual, but to Israel, the people of God (
Isaiah 43:1). God is reminding Israel that they are precious to him as his people. He formed them and redeemed them. He is not about to abandon them. No matter what challenges or difficulties they face, he will be with them to deliver them and bring them to safety and victory. As followers of Jesus, whom God brought into his people by grace (
1 Peter 2:9-10;
Galatians 6:14-16), we can accept these promises as God's people today. As believers in Jesus and part of God's people, we can see how God has preserved his people and redeemed them time and time again from their bondage to their enemies. We can celebrate how God delivered his people from impossible situations and brought them to the Messiah, Jesus. God will not forget his people! We know it by promise. We know it from history. We know it because of our faith! God will bring us victoriously to himself with great joy (
Romans 8:37-39;
Jude 1:24-25).
Thank you, Almighty God, for always being near us, your people. We confess that there are times when we are not aware of your nearness and your miraculous intervention in history for us. Nevertheless, we do believe, dear Father, that you are ever-near even when we feel alone and that your presence seems so far away. In those times, dear God, please give us confidence and perseverance to stand through the times of trial so that we can also share in your times of triumph. We believe, O God, that you are with us! In Jesus' name, pray and confess our faith in you. Amen.
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