Daily PresenceSample

Isaiah 43 v. 1 “fear not…” The Lord tells us to not be afraid, which should be powerful enough in its own right, but I think the second part of the verse is even more powerful. He calls us by name, and we are His. He then gives some pretty strong examples of just how He takes care of us. Rivers won’t overwhelm us; walking through fires and passing through waters are not threats. The Lord is showing us just how intimate a God He is. He calls us by name. Maybe it’s a product of our society but I always take note when someone uses my name. Of course, I don’t mean when taking roll or when they call you at the doctor’s office; I find that during conversation it always jars me to hear my name in context. It brings me a sense of closeness and familiarity. People who don’t really know me won’t use my name. In most professional settings, we tend to use last names (at least in our culture). So, for God to tell me that He calls me by name brings me to a place when I am known by God. He knows my folly. He knows my mistakes and my intentions. He knows my sin and He knows when I sinned yet again after resolving to never do it again, whatever it is. In fact, just prior to this chapter we see God telling the people about how he protects them but also how they keep turning away. God calls me by name because He knows me. More importantly, He wants me to know that He knows me and that HE has redeemed me. He loves me even though He knows what I do. He loved me while I was still His enemy, and He loves me when I screw up now. To be so loved that you can’t mess it up, also means you can’t do anything to earn it either. Notice the power and emphasis throughout the verse is on God. He calls us. He redeems us. He is the LORD our God. So, when God tells you to fear not, you can trust Him because He is powerful, and He knows you. AND He redeems you!