God the Protector and Restorer

1But now, this is what the Lord says—

he who created you, Jacob,

he who formed you, Israel:

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;

I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

2When 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.

3For I am the Lord your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;

I give Egypt for your ransom,

and Seba in your stead.

4Since you are precious and honored in my sight,

and because I love you,

I will give people in exchange for you,

nations in exchange for your life.

5Do not be afraid, for I am with you;

I will bring your children from the east

and gather you from the west.

6I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’

and to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’

Bring my sons from afar

and my daughters from the ends of the earth—

7everyone who is called by my name,

whom I created for my glory,

whom I formed and made.”  (Isaiah 43)

Thoughts: This is a beautiful passage that has brought hope to so many.  Isaiah is really writing to remind the people that though they will be taken into exile, God will bring them back.  This happened after a 70 year exile (586-516 BC). 
    But the promise is that God is both the protector and restorer when we go through the very toughest times of life.  When we face floods- they will not overwhelm us with God.  When we face fires- God will shelter us.  God ransoms us and brings us back to Him.  In some ways this is all our story.  We all will face death, but God will not let death be the last word.  We are all prodigals- but God brings us back to Himself.
    Here we are also reminded that we, the redeemed, are made for His glory.  We are made to glorify and enjoy Him.  

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust in you when I pass through the floods and fires of life.  Help me to believe you will bring me back when I stray.  Let me grow in trust in you.