Isaiah 43:1-4 (NIV) - “But 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. 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. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead. Since 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.”

How do you react to a stubborn and antagonistic attitude? Do you immediately bend and let him/her win or do you fight back to have the last word? God’s response to a stiff-necked people who would not follow and obey Him was “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” God’s salvation in Jesus Christ is the last word. He did not deal with them according to what they deserved. Instead, mercy triumphed over judgment. In other words, God responded not like us, but according to who He is. We too are called “you are mine.” He gave His life in exchange for ours.

We will encounter trials, disappointments and maybe even tragedies as God summons us to persevere on this salvation journey with Him, but He promises “I will be with you” - and gives Himself to us. So let’s be willing to listen and take His promise to heart. May God not pass us by. May His eternal love come in greater power so many others may also hear Him calling, “you are mine.”

-CH