READING: Isaiah 43-44, 1 Thessalonians 2
“Fear not, for I am with you.”
Isaiah 43:5
God’s people have never deserved His calling and His care. Whether the nation of Israel or the church, all of us have at times, in the words of the hymn writer, “wandered far away from God.” We find ourselves in a desperate state then were it not for the merciful, seeking, gracious love of God. Indeed, the words of Isaiah 43 in today’s reading ought to remind us of this grace.
The people of God found themselves facing judgment because of their sin. God, though, would not give up on them. Instead, He reminded them through the prophet, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine” (Isa. 43:1). The people were not to fret over the future, for God would protect them and provide for them. He had called them to Himself, and He intended to fulfill His plan through them. God, the “Holy One of Israel” (Isa. 43:3) would still be their God, and they would still be His people regardless of the judgment they were currently facing.
Moreover, they were to trust His presence to trump their fears: “Fear not, for I am with you” (Isa. 43:5). He would call His people from among the nations, and He would in fact exact judgment on the very nations He used to bring judgment on them in the first place. God would forgive the sins of His people, but He would do that for His “own sake” (Isa. 43:25) rather than theirs; He alone would get the glory.
I wonder how many times I might have conquered my fears if I had only meditated deeply on these same truths: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you” and “Fear not, for I am with you.” Jesus Christ has purchased me through His shed blood, and He lives in me today. He is with me . . . and with you if you are a Christian. Regrettably, I have too often allowed my fears to consume me, eating at my insides as I’ve turned those fears into an idol. I’m still learning, but I know that His redemption and His presence are all I need to rest in peace.
Please pray for me that I will apply these “fear not” passages the next time fear grabs my heart.
ACTION STEPS:
- Thank God for His mercy and grace – for the new beginnings He offers us.
- If you are willing, take time to pray for me and others today.
PRAYER: “God, thank You for keeping Your promises. Help me to trust Your presence whenever I face fears.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 45-46, 1 Thessalonians 3
