God's Promise in Isaiah 43:1: Answering the Call Today
Discover the promise of redemption in Isaiah 43:1. Reflect on God's call and renew your faith journey.
Christina Selvam - Hephzibah Tamil Christian Church
1/13/20254 min read
Isaiah 43:1 and God's Promise
But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel:
‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name;
You are Mine.’ - Isaiah 43:1
This verse highlights God's deep love and the incredible promise of redemption, even for a rebellious people like Israel. In the context of Israel’s exile to Babylon, God reassures them that a Redeemer will come—none other than Jesus Christ. This message of hope is not only relevant for Israel but for each of us today.
A Story of God's Call
The Pastor's Late-Night Call
I want to share a story (unknown author) that beautifully illustrates the power of God’s call. One Saturday night, a pastor was working late and decided to call his wife before he left for home. It was about 10:00 PM, but his wife didn't answer the phone. The pastor let it ring many times. He thought it was odd that she didn't answer but decided to wrap up a few things and try again in a few minutes. When he tried again, she answered right away. He asked her why she hadn't answered before, and she said that it hadn't rung at their house. They brushed it off as a fluke and went on their merry ways.
A Life Saved by Divine Timing
The following Monday, the pastor received a call at the church office, which was the phone that he'd used that Saturday night. The man that he spoke with wanted to know why he'd called on Saturday night. The pastor couldn't figure out what the man was talking about. Then the man said, "It rang and rang, but I didn't answer." The pastor remembered the mishap and apologized for disturbing him, explaining that he'd intended to call his wife. The man said, "That's okay. Let me tell you my story. You see, I was planning to commit suicide on Saturday night, but before I did, I prayed, 'God if you're there, and you don't want me to do this, give me a sign now.' At that point, my phone started to ring. I looked at the caller ID, and it said, 'Almighty God'. I was afraid to answer!"
The church that the pastor attends is called Almighty God Tabernacle. This story deeply challenged me. We often call on God in times of need, but how often do we ignore when He calls us? God calls us not only in times of distress but also to something greater: to follow Him, to serve Him, and to be with Him forever.
Reflecting on God's Call in Modern Times
Misconceptions About God
In today’s world, many people view God as a genie who grants wishes rather than as a personal Savior with whom we must build a relationship. This mindset is damaging. It’s crucial to understand that God doesn’t call us only to deliver us from trouble but to walk in faith and obedience.
Decline of Faith in Australia
Let’s take a moment to reflect on our relationship with God. Australia, once known as the Great Southland of the Holy Spirit, is now witnessing a decline in Christian faith. According to the 2021 census, over 10 million Australians indicated no religion, and from the 1960s to now Christianity has dropped from 86.2% to just 43.9% of the population. This shift is troubling, but the good news is that God’s call remains—He is still calling, even now. The question is, are we ready to answer?
A Message for the Next Generation
To all the young people reading this, you are the next generation. Will you answer God’s call or become part of this growing trend of turning away from Him?
Understanding Our Purpose Through Isaiah 43:1
In Isaiah 43:1, God calls us by name, reminding us that we are created in His image and formed by Him. Our ultimate purpose is to know God and make Him known to others. When we understand this, answering His call becomes a natural response.
Four Aspects of God's Call
Courage – “Fear not” (Isaiah 43:1)
Life is filled with fears, but God promises to be with us and assures us that we do not need to fear. When we face trials, we can rely on Him for courage and strength.
Salvation – “I have redeemed you” (Isaiah 43:1)
We are saved by God’s grace, and we are called to respond to this gift of salvation. Our lives are not guaranteed, so we must answer God’s call without delay.
Ministry – “I have called you by your name”
God calls each of us to serve and do His work. From Samuel to Paul, the Bible is filled with examples of ordinary people answering God’s extraordinary call to ministry. Are we ready to serve?
Eternal Relationship – “You are Mine” (Isaiah 43:1)
God’s ultimate desire is for us to be with Him forever. Just as we cherish our relationships with loved ones, God longs for us to cherish our relationship with Him above all else.
Conclusion: Reflecting on God's Call
As we close, let us reflect on God’s call. He is calling us to not fear, to embrace salvation, to serve in His ministry, and to be with Him forever. Will you answer His call today?
A Prayer of Commitment
Let’s pray: "Lord, we hear Your call. We submit our hearts to You and declare our commitment to follow You. Help us to live courageously, to embrace Your salvation, to serve You faithfully, and to walk with You forever."
Amen.
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