May 22, 2024

Joel Hernandez
I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:9-10

In Isaiah 41:9-10, God reassures us of His constant faithfulness and care. He tells us that we are chosen and called from the farthest places, emphasizing how He pursues us with intention and love.

The commands to “not fear” and “not be dismayed” speak to our shared human anxieties. God knows our tendencies and, in His grace, speaks truth into them. Fear often stems from feeling alone, unsupported, out of control, and losing sight or questioning God’s faithfulness or sovereignty. He reminds us that He is the one who called and chose each of us to begin with, and because of that, we can have confidence and assurance that He is present and near.

God recognizes that we are still likely to have fear or feel dismayed. He knows we are human and have a propensity to doubt and question His faithfulness. In His grace, He promises comfort through strengthening, helping, and upholding us when we encounter hardship. We can trust that He will give us strength when we’re weak, provide us with guidance and wisdom when we’re lost or unsure, and be our firm and steady foundation when everything feels uncertain.

Let’s be encouraged by this reminder: we are chosen and not rejected. We can trust in God’s unwavering presence and rely on His strength. Whatever challenges we face, God is with us, upholding us with His righteous right hand, providing guidance and support every step of the way.