“It’s just one word, but everything changes when they hear it as they come through the door.”
My wife runs a weekly toddler group, intended to give mums and dads a safe place of care and support where they can share their stories and struggles. Crucially, she’s discovered the difference it makes to greet each individual with a very special word: their name. “Nervousness gives way to surprise and joy when they realise I know them,” she explains.
Calling them by name is an essential first step in showing these parents and children that they are welcome and safe. And this was also how God chose to reassure His own people when they were walking in spiritual blindness and darkness (Isaiah 42:18-19). “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine” (43:1). I know your name; I know who you are. This assurance gave great weight to the promise that followed: “I will be with you” (v. 2). No matter what troubles His people might face, God would be there.
Are troubled waters rising fast in your life? Are the fires of doubt and fear threatening to consume you? You are not lost in the crowd, neither are you left alone. The Lord still speaks His personal comfort to you today: “I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Come and find safe refuge in the One who knows your name.
By Chris Wale
REFLECT & PRAY
What makes you doubt God’s personal love for you? How does His assurance in these verses encourage you to seek the safety of His presence?
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful You know my name. You know me. Please help me feel Your closeness today.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The Bible Knowledge Commentary points out that the phrase “but now” (or “and now”), which launches Isaiah 43:1, is a repeating feature of this section of Isaiah’s prophecy. It’s also found in 44:1; 49:5; and 52:5. In a section that boldly promises God’s rescue of the people of Israel, the phrase “but now” sets God’s promised rescue in contrast to the discipline He’s brought upon His people because of their chronic waywardness (see Isaiah 42 ). The vital thing to remember, however, is that God’s acts of correction and rescue are both expressions of His love for His people. Though they’d rejected His love, He loved them to the point of disciplining them for their wrongful actions. Then He loved them enough to bring them home.
Bill Crowder
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