Isaiah 43:1-2

“But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.”

The Lord drew my attention to this chapter in Isaiah many years ago during a very difficult time in my life. I was at a worship leader’s conference and this passage was preached in the message. I still have the notes that I took during that service nearly 17 years later. That’s how much it impacted me!

The situation I was going through was a long season filled with betrayal and emotional agony. I felt like I was literally drowning in my circumstances and the anxiety that accompanied them. Because of my pride, I was battling on my own. I had not surrendered my problems to God because the way I viewed it, I got myself into this mess and it was up to me to get myself out. Looking back, I see how absolutely ridiculous that thought process was! But God is gracious and oh so kind. He never left me and kept drawing me to Himself.

Isaiah 43 is such powerful scripture for anyone who feels unseen, unloved and hopeless in their current circumstances. God sees you where you are right now. He is calling you by name…maybe not the name you were given at birth, but a name He has given you. Perhaps it sounds like “dear daughter” or “beloved” or “my lovely one.” He has literally ransomed you when Jesus died on the cross for you. He promises to be with you through the really bad stuff in life! He won’t let you drown or be burned up by what you’re going through! But! You must turn to Him. Ask Him for help. Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord! Hide yourself in the shadow of the wings of the Almighty. There is no fear in there!

When I read this passage of scripture, I like to put my name in where it says “Jacob” and “Israel.” Take a moment to read the entire chapter of Isaiah 43 with your name inserted. It becomes very personal and life-changing, especially during a stressful and hopeless-feeling season.

Don’t fear! You’ve been ransomed! He is with you! Turn to Him! Surrender your life to Him today!