“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 43:2

When we come across passages like Isaiah 43:2, a common reaction is to think that our relationship with God keeps us from all harm. However, even though it is true that our relationship with God does keep us from eternal destruction, we often experience pain and loss here on earth. This truth, then, often makes us question our relationship with Him, or even His goodness. So at these times it is important to remember: God’s people conquered their enemies, but also lived in exile and slavery; the apostles saw chains fall off and prison doors thrown open, but they also sat in prison for years; and even Jesus Christ, God in the flesh, suffered and died. So what should we learn from our passage for today? The point is that God is sovereign over all these situations. There is no circumstance that is out of God’s control. Even in the seeming chaos of rising flood waters or raging wildfires, God is in complete control and working for the good of those who love Him…even if the outcome is not what we hoped for. The comfort of this thought is only complete when we realize that this God, who has complete control of every situation in our lives, also has perfect and pure love for us. So next time the flood waters are rising or the wildfire is raging in your life, remember; “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all– how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32)

Loving Heavenly Father and God of all creation, let us rest confidently and peacefully today in Your powerful Sovereignty and Your unfailing Love.

In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Shane Cannon <><