“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 ESV

Hogenakkal is a place on the Tamil Nadu–Karnataka border,in India, known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic views. The government later built a crocodile rehabilitation and rescue center there, so the area naturally had many crocodiles. Today there are safety measures, but back in the 1990s, things were not as secure.

During that time, our family visited the area for a short trip. It was a season of heavy rainfall, the water currents were fierce, and even the riverbanks were overflowing. Yet crowds of tourists still flocked to the place.

There was a famous coracle boat ride that took visitors close to the waterfalls for sightseeing. But it came with a risk—especially during that dangerous season. Many tourists ignored the warnings of the officials, and people were not disciplined enough to obey safety instructions.

My dad, being very curious and adventurous, wanted all seven of us to go together on one boat. My mother disagreed, but my dad insisted. The boatman firmly refused and finally explained why.

Just a few days earlier, a tragic incident had taken place. A couple with their infant—less than a year old—and a few others were on a coracle ride. At one point, the boat slowed down, and a massive crocodile approached, attempting to capsize it. The animal was in full attack mode. Panic erupted. The boatman, experienced but terrified, told them that the crocodile would not back away without taking something—and suggested throwing the baby into the water so the rest could survive.

The parents refused, but time was running out. If the boat capsized, everyone would drown or be dragged under. In the chaos and pressure from others, the baby was thrown into the water. The crocodile took the child, and the rest were saved. It was a horrifying event that shook the entire area.

After hearing this, my dad dropped the idea of the long scenic ride and took us instead on the backwater route. It was less thrilling, but at least we enjoyed it without fear gripping our hearts.

When I think about that story now, one thing stands out: in moments of crisis, even your closest people—your own flesh and blood—may abandon you out of fear or self-preservation. People who promised to stand with you may suddenly step back. Human strength fails, human loyalty falters, and human courage collapses under pressure.

But this Scripture comes as a powerful encouragement: we have a God who does not abandon us.

When you walk through raging waters, He walks with you.

When you face consuming fire, He stands beside you.

He doesn’t just promise deliverance—He promises His presence.

At some point in life, all of us walk a path where no one can go with us. The waters roar. The flames rise. The journey feels lonely. Yet this verse is God’s assurance to your heart: You are never alone.

God will not throw you into deep waters and leave you there.

He is your lifeguard—guiding, carrying, and covering you.

He was with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fire, and He will be with you.

The flames will not consume you.

God never promised a life without trials, but He promised His unfailing presence in every season—highs and lows, tears and joy, victories and failures. And the proof is He gave His only Son, Jesus Christ, to rescue you from every harm.

Be encouraged today: Jesus is with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Prayer

Father, thank You for being my refuge in deep waters and my shield in the fire. When fear rises and storms surround me, remind me that You are with me and will never abandon me. Strengthen my heart to trust Your presence, Your protection, and Your promises. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.