A Personal God

A Personal God

“We were promised sufferings. They were part of the program. We were even told, 'Blessed are they that mourn,' and I accept it. I've got nothing that I hadn't bargained for. Of course it is different when the thing happens to oneself, not to others, and in reality, not imagination.” - C.S. Lewis

In Isaiah 43, God says “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God…”(ESV). Note the personal language: “I have called you by name,” and “you are mine.”

Because God knows us intimately, we can be assured that we will never have to face trials on our own. God is with us. He is not simply providing words of encouragement, but actually walking with us by sending the comforter, the Holy Spirit. The waters, rivers and fire that are mentioned in Isaiah 43 are words used to describe the trials that we will all have to endure at various points in our lives. The uncertainly of what lies beneath the water. The rapids and strong current of the rivers that can pull us under. The searing heat of the fire. Each of these things can impact us to varying degrees, from being merely disruptive to causing severe trouble and even death.

God promises that we will never be alone in our trials. Take comfort knowing that you are never alone and that you have a Heavenly Father who has redeemed you and will redeem every situation for his glory. He knows you by name and calls you his child.