Definition: Remember these, O Jacob and Israel; for thou [art] my servant: I have formed thee; thou [art] my servant: O Israel, thou shalt not be forgotten of me.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 44:21. It’s a really powerful message about God’s love and protection for His people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying: “You are my chosen ones, Jacob and Israel. I have made you, and I’ve given you a special place with me. You are my servant, and I will always remember you.” Let’s unpack that a bit: “Remember these, O Jacob and Israel…” – This is a gentle reminder to the Israelites (and everyone God chooses) – to keep in mind who they are and what God has done for them. “…for thou [art] my servant…” - This emphasizes that God sees you as his helper and partner. It’s not just about being near him, but actively serving him. “I have formed thee; I have made thee…” – This is a really important part! "Formed" means He created you. He didn't just begin to exist, he created you with a purpose. “…Thou [art] my servant…” – Again, this reinforces that God has given you a role and responsibility. “O Israel, thou shalt not be forgotten of me.” - This is the key part! It’s a promise that God will never forget about you. He will always watch over you, protect you, and remember your existence. It's a guarantee of His love and care. In short, it’s a declaration of God’s loving protection and remembrance for his people. It’s a message of hope and reassurance – knowing that God is with us and never leaves us behind. What does this verse mean to you? Do you have any questions about it or would you like me to explain anything further? For example, are you curious about: Its connection to the story of Israel in the Old Testament? The idea of God’s faithfulness over time?