When we think about God’s calling, we can be practical to a fault. We beg God to show us what we should do— when He is more concerned with who we are. In Genesis, God called Abram to go to an undisclosed land and become a great nation (Genesis 12). God wanted Abram to do something and to become something.

The theme of calling is woven throughout Isaiah 40–55. In these chapters, God calls (qara) His people to righteousness (41:2) and servitude (41:9). He calls (qara) Israel by name (45:3–4), and His people “belong” to Him (44:5). God’s call is initiated even before we are born (49:1). He desires reciprocity (55:6), which is not always received (43:22; 50:2). Abram’s call is even recounted in 51:2 as an example.

In today’s passage, we see that God’s call is motivated by love. Look at this beautiful description, beginning in verse 1: “But now, this is what the LORD says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not
fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned [qara] you by name; you are mine.’” God’s call grew out of His creative and redemptive work, and it is expressed in the way God calls (qara) His people by name. He calls them “Mine.”

Following God’s call can necessitate a difficult path, passing through the waters and walking through the fires. But it comes with unparalleled benefits. God promised His presence and His protection (v. 2). He promised that Israel would not be drowned or burned. And He made these promises on the basis of His identity: “the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior” (v. 3). In verse 4, God expresses His tender heart toward His people. He calls them “precious” and “honored,” and he plainly declared: “I love you.”

>> God is not just calling you to go, He’s also calling you to be. Ask God not only what task lies ahead, but how He is calling you to change.

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