Read: Isaiah 43:1-7
In a recent news story from Cleveland, Ohio a bank robber made a couple huge mistakes. His first mistake of course was robbing the bank in the first place, but his second mistake led to his capture. As he handed the note to the teller demanding money he failed to realize that he had written his command on the back of his vehicle registration card that had his full name and address on it. The teller gave him the cash, thanked him by name, and kept the note to give to the police.
When I read this story in the news I was reminded of how God knows all of us by name. Not only does he know us by name, he knows everything about us. Nothing is hidden from the creator of the universe and the creator of human beings. This can be intimidating or it can be comforting. Intimidating if we are out of step with God, and comforting if we need God’s help in life. It can also be reassuring to know that God cares for us in a personal way.
In Isaiah 43 we are given these reassuring words, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… When you walk through the fire you will not be burned…. Do not be afraid for I am with you.” In the New Testament God’s Son Jesus also reassures us of his personal love, care, and concern for us. John chapter 10 says, “I am the good shepherd, I know my sheep… He calls his own sheep by name and leads them.”
Whatever it is that you are facing this week, know that God is there for you. He has created you, He knows you by name, and he is ready and able to support you, bring you peace, forgive you, and extend his grace to you for any sin or mistake you have made in life. I sure hope the bank robber in Cleveland will learn this truth and allow it to turn his life in the right direction.
Make it Personal: Most of us would never think of robbing a bank, but how many times have you beat yourself up over smaller missteps? Too often we allow the guilt of those mistakes to be carried around for way too long. Jesus knows them and wants to forgive you so that you can move on from them without the guilt and condemnation. He knows your name and loves you! Have a blessed week everyone, Pastor Glen Rhodes
