Isa 43:2, 1Pe 4:12 | JFB | e4.org | 2. rivers . . . not overflow thee —so in passing Jordan, though at its " overflow, " when its "swellings" were especially dangerous ( ). waters . . . fire —a proverbial phrase for the extremest perils ( ; also ). Literally fulfilled at the Red Sea ( ), and in the case of the three youths cast into the fiery furnace for conscience' sake ( ).

‏ Isaiah 43:2

2. rivers . . . not overflow thee—so in passing Jordan, though at its "overflow," when its "swellings" were especially dangerous (Jos 3:15; Jer 12:5).

waters . . . fire—a proverbial phrase for the extremest perils (Ps 66:12; also Ps 138:7). Literally fulfilled at the Red Sea (Ex 14:21, 22), and in the case of the three youths cast into the fiery furnace for conscience' sake (Da 3:25, 27).

‏ 1 Peter 4:12

12. strange—they might think it strange that God should allow His chosen children to be sore tried.

fiery trial—like the fire by which metals are tested and their dross removed. The Greek adds, "in your case."

which is to try you—Greek, "which is taking place for a trial to you." Instead of its "happening to you" as some strange and untoward chance, it "is taking place" with the gracious design of trying you; God has a wise design in it—a consolatory reflection.