The Only Savior

During their troubles, Isaiah reminded the Israelites that only God could save them; not allies, like Egypt; not idols, of gold or wood. God Almighty created them. The Holy One of Israel brought them out of slavery.

Unfortunately, difficult situations can do strange things to people.

When armies threatened Israel, they looked for a military might to rescue them. When crops failed, they prayed to statues, believing they controlled nature.

Citizens of the twenty-first century are not so different. Instead of carved images, we worship pieces of paper (money) and silicon chips (technology), believing they can save us. We look to governments and medical science to solve the crises we face.

Like the ancient Israelites, we want our pain and trouble to end now.

God, on the other hand, sees the big picture. The daily struggles we face, though overwhelming to us, pale in light of eternity. A fulfilling career, a happy family, or a healthy body cannot satisfy our deepest need. The greatest need of every human being stems from our broken relationship with our Creator. Sin cuts us off from God — the only one who can satisfy our souls.

And only God, through the death and resurrection of Jesus, can restore that relationship.

“I, I am the lord, and besides me there is no savior. I declared and saved and proclaimed, when there was no strange god among you; and you are my witnesses,” declares the lord, “and I am God” (Isaiah 43:11-12).

Jesus is the Savior we need.

Father, I acknowledge that you alone are God, the only Savior. Thank you for redeeming me. Forgive me for looking to earthly things to solve temporary problems. Help me to trust in you to do what is best for me.

Throughout This Day: Celebrate the fact that the Almighty Creator of the Universe is also your Redeemer, your Deliverer.