In recent headlines, the IRS admits targeting conservative groups. You may wonder if God cares about the way His people are treated. Yes, He loves His people passionately. Case in point: on first reading of today’s verse you may think the “you” Isaiah refers to is God. But in reality he is speaking to the nation of Israel.

For the nation and kingdom that will not serve you shall perish. Isaiah 60:12

God was getting ready to do an amazing work in Israel. He promised to bless and protect them. He said, in a sense, “the way they treat you is the way they treat Me.” He identified with them. In the New Testament we see another clear picture of God identifying with His people. On the road to Damascus when Paul was struck blind, Jesus asked, “Why are you persecuting me?” (Acts 9:4) The “me” Paul was persecuting was Christians.

God’s eyes are on this nation. He sees the persecution that is rising up in this country. He identifies with a believer’s pain. Know that God jealously loves you and cares for you. Pray for those in the United States who oppose Christians to repent, look with favor on believers, and for many to receive Jesus as their Savior.

Recommended Reading: John 15:12-25