“I Will Be With You” :: Deeper Devotion

By Glenn Ansley

Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they will not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched,
Nor will the flame burn you.

No one escapes the pain of affliction. Committed to ruling our lives as a tyrannical lord, it can manifest itself in the form of physical, emotional, and spiritual pain. It crushes the human soul without regard for prior hurt or future devastation. As Isaiah so poetically illustrates, affliction may visit you with the pressing weight of deep waters, the overpowering strength of a rushing river, or the agonizing heat of an unquenchable flame. Regardless of the form it takes, one surety remains clear: everyone must face affliction.

Isaiah was commissioned by the Lord to speak truth to the discouraged nation of Israel. His message is simple and it still applies to those called by His name: “God is with you.” To Israel, God promises “Do not fear, for I am with you” (Isaiah 43:5). To you and me, Jesus promises, “Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20).

It is because of God’s promise to always be with you that Isaiah can rejoice. Because God is with us, you will never be over come by the waters or the rivers… you will pass through them. Because God is with us, you will never be scorched or burned by the flames… you will walk through them. Rejoice with the prophet today. Sing praises to your Lord on account of His great faithfulness to those who are called by His name.

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