“Because you are precious in my sight and honored, and I love you, I will give people in exchange for you and nations instead of your life” (Isaiah 43.4).

When it came to Israel, the LORD would sacrifice other nations. Why? Two very important reasons: 1) What the Israelites were to Him in spite of their treacherous disposition; 2) What He was to the Israelites. They were precious, honored, and loved. God has never let them go. If that is true of Israel, it is certainly true of believers in the church today. 

I am precious in God’s sight. That’s a wonder to me. There is nothing special about me or good in me that God might consider me precious. I am among those counted as God’s special people called out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2.9). By grace I have been saved through faith. I am not saved by my own efforts. Salvation is God’s gift not of self works lest I might boast (Ephesians 2.8-9). My belief in the Gospel is held secure by its Author and Finisher (Hebrews 12.2). 

I am loved by God. I have a high, holy, and heavenly calling. I am honored by Him in that I am called His child, a saint, and a co-heir with the Beloved One, Jesus Christ. I shall reign with Him. May God enable me to walk worthy of this calling, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1.10). Good fidelity is important on my part. I must adorn the doctrine of God my Savior in all things: the way I think, the words I speak, and the actions I take. Public and private holy conduct and godliness are very important. God demands of me: “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1.16).