Isaiah 43:2 offers a great and wonderful word of encouragement. Maybe you are going through a really tough time in your life right now. Whatever trials you are facing, it is encouraging to know that at these times, God is not far away but very near. Is it not a comfort to know that our Heavenly Father is not aloof from our sufferings but that He is Emmanuel (God with us) in our testing circumstances. If you are in a situation where you are in over your head, sailing through rough waters, or stuck between a rock and a hard place, be encouraged, God is with you. Your Father is right there by your side. He will keep your head above water. He will bring you out of stormy seas into calmer straits. He will not let you go down a hard road only to find it is a dead end. He is your personal God and Savior. He is infinitely fond of you. He wants the best for you. He will guide you through. Do not be afraid; God is with us. Jesus loves you! — Isaiah 43:2