When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.
God promises not exemption from calamity but His immediate assistance within it. Water and fire mean every kind of misery; we are tried by afflictions of infinitely diversified kinds, yet supported by His grace and the spirit of patience, never consumed, until at length He lifts us on high.
AI summary
After reproving Jacob's stubborn disobedience, God's goodness blazes forth all the brighter: He continues His love and care for His people. Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound; mercy rejoices against judgment, and the sun breaks from behind dark clouds to shine the brighter.
AI summary
Commenting on Isaiah 43:1-7
Waters and rivers and fire mean the afflictions of God's people in general, persecutions from men, temptations of Satan coming like a flood, and every other trial. Though they come upon believers and distress them greatly, they shall not overflow their faith or separate them from the love of God, for He is with them to sympathize, comfort, and deliver.
AI summary