Understanding Isaiah 43:2: God’s Promise of Protection

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” – Isaiah 43:2
Life brings hardships—loss, heartbreak, uncertainty, and struggles that feel heavy. In those moments, we have a choice: turn to God or pull away. Too often, we let pain and frustration push us away from Him. We question why He allowed it, doubt His presence, and try to handle it alone. The enemy wants nothing more than to use our struggles to separate us from the One who loves us.
But what if we did the opposite? What if, instead of pulling away, we held on even tighter to His promises? Isaiah 43:2 reminds us that no matter what we face, God is with us. The waters may rise, but they won’t sweep us away. The fire may burn, but it won’t consume us. He never said we wouldn’t face trials, but He did promise to be with us through them.
If you’re in a hard season right now, don’t carry it alone. God is near, ready to walk beside you, give you strength, and bring you peace. Instead of turning away, lean in. Call on Him, trust His plan, and let Him lead you through. On the other side, you’ll find His love has carried you, refined you, and made you stronger. If you’re struggling to trust God in the middle of your battle, be encouraged—He is fighting for you. Read more about how God goes before us in difficult times in this post on Exodus 14:14.