With us in the Fire

There is a popular worship song by Shane and Shane with a chorus: “Lord of Hosts, You're with us, With us in the fire, With us as a shelter, With us in the storm.” This is a similar message to today’s verse in Isaiah 43:2, which gives us the wonderful reassurance that God will be with us when we pass through the waters or through the fire, or their equivalent. He does not say “if” we go through troubles - He says “when”.

When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace because they would not bow down to the image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3), the King looked and saw not just the three of them walking around in the fire, but also a fourth. The Lord was with them in the fire!

Jesus never promised us a life without problems and difficulties. In fact He said that in this world we would have trouble (John 16:33), but He goes on to say, “Take heart! I have overcome the world.”  What the Lord does promise is that He will be with us whatever we are going through. Psalm 46:1-2 says that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” How wonderful that God has promised to be an ever-present help, especially when we are in trouble.

Whatever storm you may be facing today, whether it is because of situations in your own life or vilification for being a Christian, be assured that God will never leave you or forsake you. He has promised to be with you in the fire, and He will uphold you and give you everything you need. He says: “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 41:10). Put your hand in His and trust Him!