Isaiah 41:8-10 - Serving a faithful God

Through Isaiah, God had told Judah that their chastening would include their exile in Babylon. However, God would raise Cyrus to free them from captivity. But at the coming of Cyrus, the nations in the far reaches of the earth would be confounded. For Cyrus would come conquering and destroying the nations. In fear and trembling, the nations would seek each other’s support and encouragement. Their craftsmen would come together to fashion idols hoping that their man-made idols could cope with the menacing Cyrus. But in contrast, the people of Judah would be dealt with differently. Though they had faltered and were unfaithful to Him, God would remain faithful and stay committed to them. In Isaiah 41:8-20, God told them why He would treat them differently, and then made promises that He would deliver them.

In our discussion of verses 8-10 today, we will see the reason why God would deal with Judah differently. Although they disappointed Him, yet He would remain faithful to them and would deliver them. In referring to Israel, God was pointing to them as a nation. As a nation, Israel was called to serve God alone. And because they were the descendants of Jacob, they became His chosen. God made it clear in verse 8 that it was in Abraham, His friend, that they as his descendants, still had a unique relationship with Him.

 

The central issue here is the truth that Israel was God’s chosen. He had chosen Israel to be His unique and special people. It was not the other way round. Being the chosen of God is a privilege. That privilege included their security. He would not reject them, neither would He forsake them. As their God, He would strengthen, help, and uphold them with His righteous right hand. Hence, they should have no fear of the rise of Cyrus. However, like all privileges, their calling came with a responsibility. They were called to serve.

 

God through Christ has called us into a unique relationship with Him. Because of this relationship, we can find our security in Him. But like Israel with God, our relationship with Him through Christ is also a privilege. It also comes with responsibilities. Each one of us is called and chosen to be a witness of Christ to the world. Hear the assuring words of our Lord in John 15:16, “You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain ….” Let us enjoy our privilege in Christ, but serve Him we must.