YOUR INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP – GODS LOVE LETTER !

God created the nation of Israel, and he had a special relationship with his people. God redeemed them and called them by name to be the ones who belong to him. God often protected Israel in times of trouble. When he allowed his people to suffer destruction and captivity, he was preparing them for redemption later. God wants a special relationship with us, too. Since we belong to him and bear his wonderful name, we must remember that he is always with us. We must learn to cling to him during times of adversity because only his merciful love is strong enough to give us freedom from evil’s destructive power.

When we go through rivers of difficulty, we will either drown or grow stronger as we learn to keep our heads above the water. If you try to make it with your own strength, you will likely drown. If you invite the Lord to go with you, he will be in the river with you and teach you how to navigate the treacherous waters

Isaiah 43:1-11,13
But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, “Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.

[2] When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.

[3] For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I gave Egypt as a ransom for your freedom; I gave Ethiopia and Seba in your place.

[4] Others were given in exchange for you. I traded their lives for yours because you are precious to me. You are honored, and I love you.

[5] “Do not be afraid, for I am with you. I will gather you and your children from east and west.

[6] I will say to the north and south, ‘Bring my sons and daughters back to Israel from the distant corners of the earth.

[7] Bring all who claim me as their God, for I have made them for my glory. It was I who created them.'”

[8] Bring out the people who have eyes but are blind, who have ears but are deaf.

[9] Gather the nations together! Assemble the peoples of the world! Which of their idols has ever foretold such things? Which can predict what will happen tomorrow? Where are the witnesses of such predictions? Who can verify that they spoke the truth?

[10] “But you are my witnesses, O Israel!” says the LORD. “You are my servant. You have been chosen to know me, believe in me, and understand that I alone am God. There is no other God- there never has been, and there never will be.

[11] I, yes I, am the LORD, and there is no other Savior.

[13] “From eternity to eternity I am God. No one can snatch anyone out of my hand. No one can undo what I have done.”

Israel’s task was to be a witness, telling the world who God is and what he has done. All believers today have the assignment to be God’s witnesses. Do people experience God’s love through your words and example? Although they may not see God directly, they can see him reflected in you.

To know God will never let us go is a great encouragement. His patience and unending love hold us close to him. When you feel alone and are tempted to think God doesn’t know you or care about you, remember that nothing can take you away from him once you belong to him. Memorize this verse and recite it often.