But now, this is what the Lord says—
he who created you, Jacob,
he who formed you, Israel:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
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. (Isaiah 43:1-2
Dear heavenly Father,
Your Word is solace for the sad and balance for the bewildered, a firm rock for those rocked by life's circumstances and bread from heaven for the hungry on earth. This isn't theory, the wisdom of sages, or just true and good theology. It's our reality.
And we praise you.
You've made promises you alone can keep, and you do not lie. No god is as near or good, merciful or mighty as you—no matter the storm or season.
As you have spoken clearly through Isaiah, you created us and are redeeming us, all for your glory. You summoned us by name, calling us to life in the gospel. You gave us a new name-"Mine." There's no sweeter, more perspective-giving or more peace-generating name you could call us. You never promised we wouldn't experience floods and torrents, fires and flames. But you have promised to be with us. To know your great affection for us and your absolute sovereignty over everything is enough, Father
Indeed, we know ourselves to be precious, honored, and greatly loved, because you gave Jesus in exchange for us.
Though he was rich, yet for our sakes he became poor, so that through his poverty we might become rich (2 Cor. 8:9).
We praise you for the indescribable gift of the gospel.
And since you didn't spare your own Son, certainly we can trust you to graciously give us everything else we need (Rom. 8:32)—in current storms and future fires. We don't have to be afraid of anything or anyone. You are with us and you are for us.
We pray in Jesus' great and grace-full name.
Amen.
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