God Knows Your Name
Have you ever felt stuck in a situation that felt too big to handle? Like you were facing something overwhelming—something impossible? Maybe it was a financial burden, a health diagnosis, a family issue, or a decision that felt way too heavy.
I’ve been there. When we experienced two miscarriages in one year, we wondered if we’d ever be able to have children. And when we finally were expecting our son Caleb, we were barely scraping by financially. We didn’t know how we’d afford the delivery costs. Later, when my wife was wheeled into surgery to remove a brain tumor, I felt completely helpless.
Life has moments like that—when we feel trapped, face impossible odds, or feel the heat of a situation that threatens to burn us. But Isaiah 43 offers a powerful word from God for moments just like these:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” – Isaiah 43:1
Pause and let that sink in. God knows your name. Not just “Mark” or “Jennifer” or “Carissa,” but every nickname, every unique detail of who you are—even your Starbucks alias or gamer tag. The God of the universe calls you by name and says, you are mine.
When You’re Trapped, God Makes a Way
Isaiah 43:2 continues with some vivid promises:
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… the rivers will not sweep over you… the fire will not burn you.”
These aren’t just poetic words—they’re echoes of real moments in Israel’s history:
Trapped at the Red Sea – God split the sea so Moses and the Israelites could walk through.
Facing the Flooded Jordan – God stopped the river so Joshua could lead his people into the Promised Land.
Thrown into the Fire – God showed up in the furnace with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.
Each time, God made a way. Each time, he was with them.
So if you’re feeling trapped, overwhelmed, or burned today—remember: God still makes a way.
A God Who Trades Nations for You
Isaiah continues with an astonishing picture of how much you matter to God:
“Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give people in exchange for you…” (Isaiah 43:4)
God is not distant or indifferent. He’s personal, passionate, and present. He’s the God who brings people back from exile, who gathers children from every direction, who calls his sons and daughters from the ends of the earth.
And in the divine courtroom scene that follows, God doesn’t just invite nations to watch—he puts himself on trial. “Which of your gods foretold what would happen?” (Isaiah 43:9). The silence of the false gods is deafening.
But then God turns to his people—to you—and says:
“You are my witnesses… so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he.” (Isaiah 43:10)
Not only are we called to testify about God to others, but in doing so, we ourselves grow in belief and understanding. Testifying doesn’t just bless others—it deepens our own faith.
God Is Doing a New Thing
And then comes a twist:
“Forget the former things… See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18-19)
Yes, God parted seas and protected people in the past—but he’s not done. He’s always doing something new. He’s creative, wild, and full of surprises. Every moment is a chance for something new to spring up—even in the wilderness, even in the wasteland.
So… do you need God to do a new thing in your life?
Maybe it’s a new thing in your health, your relationships, your work, or your spiritual journey. Maybe you’re far from God and today is your moment to come home. Maybe you’re stuck, or worn down, or ready to give up—and you just need fresh hope.
Here’s the truth:
God knows your name. He is with you in the water and in the fire. He makes a way where there is no way. And he is doing a new thing—right now.
Don’t miss it. Ask him. Invite him in. He’s not just the God of the past—he’s the God of the present and the future, too.
Message recap adapted from April 6, 2025, message by Minister Mark Ashton
