You are not forgotten - E lē faagaloina oe

Scripture Focus: Isaia 49:7-18

Thus says Yahweh, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despises, to him whom the nation abhors, to a servant of rulers: “Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall worship; because of Yahweh who is faithful, even the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.” Thus says Yahweh, “In an acceptable time have I answered you, and in a day of salvation have I helped you; and I will preserve you, and give you for a covenant of the people, to raise up the land, to make them inherit the desolate heritage: saying to those who are bound, ‘Come out!’; to those who are in darkness, ‘Show yourselves!’ “They shall feed in the ways, and on all bare heights shall be their pasture. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun strike them: for he who has mercy on them will lead them, even by springs of water he will guide them. I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be exalted. Behold, these shall come from far; and behold, these from the north and from the west; and these from the land of Sinim.” Sing, heavens; and be joyful, earth; and break out into singing, mountains: for Yahweh has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his afflicted. But Zion said, “Yahweh has forsaken me, and the Lord has forgotten me.” “Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? Yes, these may forget, yet I will not forget you! Behold, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are continually before me. Your children make haste; your destroyers and those who made you waste shall go out from you. Lift up your eyes all around, and see: all these gather themselves together, and come to you. As I live,” says Yahweh, “you shall surely clothe yourself with them all as with an ornament, and dress yourself with them, like a bride.
- Isaiah 49:7-18 (WEB)

Study:

Isaiah 49:7-18 is a powerful passage that reminds us of God's unfailing faithfulness and compassion. Though the people of Zion feel forsaken and forgotten, God speaks tenderly to assure them otherwise. He is the Redeemer, chosen by God, whose purpose is to bring restoration and salvation. The passage vividly describes God’s promise to deliver, guide, and provide for His people, even engraving them on the palms of His hands as a sign of intimate remembrance and care. This scripture reassures us that no matter how isolated or abandoned we may feel, God is present, actively working for our good and to restore us fully.

Application:

In our daily lives, feelings of loneliness, rejection, or being forgotten can overwhelm us. Isaiah’s message encourages us to trust in God's constant presence and love. Even in our darkest moments, God promises not to forget us. We can lean on this assurance by turning to Him in prayer, trusting that He guides us like a shepherd, providing sustenance and leading us to places of peace. This scripture calls us to hold onto hope, knowing that God’s plans for us are good, and He is always ready to comfort and restore us, no matter our situation.

Reflection Questions:

• When have you felt forgotten or forsaken, and how did you respond?
• How does knowing God has you engraved on the palms of His hands change your perspective about your worth?
• In what ways can you remind yourself daily of God’s faithfulness and care?
• How can this passage encourage you to help others who feel lost or abandoned?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. When I feel forgotten or alone, help me to remember that I am engraved on Your hands and forever held in Your care. Lead me beside Your living waters, and guide my steps when I feel lost. Comfort my heart with Your promises and fill me with hope each day. Use me to bring comfort to others who are struggling, that they too may know Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Tags: Bible study, Isaiah 49, God’s faithfulness, comfort in God, hope in hardship, God’s promises, Christian encouragement, feeling forgotten, God’s love, daily devotion