"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Isaiah 43:1-43 In the middle of prophecy after prophecy of the coming terror and destruction that would soon come to Israel, Isaiah is given this word of comfort and hope. If they will just keep their eyes on the Lord as the trouble comes, it will not overwhelm them or destroy them; it will purge them and turn their hearts more fully than ever before to Him. They will become His people in truth, not just in name. God is always working to turn our hearts to Him. Peace, prosperity and blessings; trials, fears and confusion are all permitted each in their turn but always with the same purpose. All the while His promises are kept: He will never leave us or forsake us; He will not allow us to be tempted beyond our strength; His lovingkindness is everlasting; His mercy endures forever, and “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the earth.” Lord Jesus, Your promises are the one certain thing in my life. Keep my eyes on You. “I will not fear, for You are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles