In the book of Isaiah, God speaks frankly, in a straightforward style. Because of translation challenges, some of the wording may seem old or “religious,” but that should be corrected. This is God offering you a seat at His table, a good meal, and a good conversation. Let’s paraphrase and put it in today’s English:
“Come, let us reason together. Let’s talk. No matter how bad your sins are, I will wash you clean” Isaiah 1:18.
And skipping ahead to today’s reading in chapter 45—
Don’t be afraid. I have fixed you, healed you. I will be with you when you are in deep waters and huge waves. I won’t let you drown. I will be with you in the fire and I won’t let you be burned—because I am Jesus, your God. And because you are precious in My sight, I honor you. Do you realize that?
I HONOR you. And I LOVE you. You should never be afraid of anything ever again, because I am always with you…. You have your name, but from now on, you will be called by My Name. You are connected to Me—just as children are connected to their fathers and take their fathers’ names, so you are connected to me and will be called by My name.
I created you FOR MY GLORY. When you make good choices, you give Me glory. I formed you, molded you, and chose everything about you.
You were custom-made for Me. I LOVE YOU! 43:1-7. I formed everyone for MYSELF, for MY own purposes. No matter who you think of—I formed them for My purpose.
“The people I formed for Myself will declare My praise” Is. 43: 21.
I am Jesus. There is no other God. I form light and create darkness. I make success and I create disaster. 45:6-7.
God, thank you for speaking plainly to our fears and shame and hurts. Help us to love You more every day.
ΑΩ
Household Words: 