“But now Yahweh who created you, Jacob, and he who formed you, Israel says: “Don’t be afraid, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by your name. You are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned, and flame will not scorch you. For I am Yahweh your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I have given Egypt as your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place.”
Isaiah 43:1-3 (WEB)
You Are Not Alone
In Isaiah 43, Yahweh speaks to Jacob and Israel, assuring them of His presence and redemption. He promises protection and declares His identity as their Savior, reaffirming His commitment to His people before moving on to challenge the nations and announce restoration. In the verse, the repetition of "I" emphasizes God's active role: He created, formed, redeemed, and will be with them. Notice the order of challenges—water and fire—as a metaphor for life's trials that they will endure without harm. Consider today how you might acknowledge a moment of challenge in your life and, in a quiet space, reflect on the assurance of being known and called by name.