I think it is really amazing to be able to bask in the confidence that God knows everything, and I believe the prophet Isaiah thought so as well. During his lifetime in the land of Judah, there was a lot of uncertainty, as there were many kings who came and went, some good, and some wicked. But in spite of all of this, God assured Isaiah and His people that he would not forsake them, and in this passage, He promised a Savior, Jesus.
Over the course of this summer we studied the book of Ruth, and throughout all of it we saw themes of redemption, because it ultimately points to the redemption that God would provide to the world through Jesus. In these 9 chapters of Isaiah, this redemption through Jesus is prophetically promised to the people of Israel, in spite of all their sin and rebellion against God. One of the passages that clearly demonstrates this promise is in the beginning of Isaiah 42, which says: “Behold! My Servant whom I uphold, My Elect One in whom My soul delights! I have put My Spirit upon Him; He will bring forth justice to the Gentiles.” These verses are speaking of Jesus, and go on to describe His love and character for people, and how He will ultimately bring justice on earth.
But take a minute and ponder how amazing this truly is, that God knows everything, and in spite of our failures, He chose to love us and redeem us, long ago. So whatever things may be going on today, rest assured that God has a plan, and that He will take care of everything.
And God not only promises us forgiveness and redemption, but He also promises to be with us, even in the most difficult of times. In Isaiah 43:1-2 He says: “But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.’ ”
What a blessed assurance for us to know that God has not only redeemed us, but wants to walk with us through the different trials in life. So I encourage you to take a moment and give thanks for what God has done for you, and to trust in Him, even when things don’t always make sense.
Written by NBB Alumnus: William Saunders
