Because of the importance of Israel and its people, and my personal love for The Land, I’m inviting you to join me through the key Old Testament book of Isaiah. Each day I’m posting some simple thoughts about this complex prophet.
Isaiah 54.
The glory of Zion is at hand. Get ready for a blessing from God.
“Make your tents larger! Spread out the tent pegs; fasten them firmly.” (v2, CEV).
Can I tell you how much God loves you? First, there was the promise to Noah. Now, there is a promise for the people of Israel — a promise for you and me as well. “For even if the mountains walk away and the hills fall to pieces, my love won’t walk away from you, my covenant commitment of peace won’t fall apart.” The God who has compassion on you says so.”” (v10, MSG). “I will always be kind and merciful to you.” (v10, CEV).
Even when all seems hopeless… “for those who are childless (v1), for those who are widowed (v4).” Even in the worst of times, God will take care of you, of us.
I’m reminded of the encouraging words of Jesus, spoken on a hillside along the Sea of Galilee. “Do not worry about your life…” (Matthew 6:25, NIV). The Master continues, “But more than anything else put God’s work first and do what he wants. Then the other things will be yours as well.” (Matthew 6:33, CEV).
Don’t worry about what you’ll wear or what you’ll eat. Or about those who attack you or say mean things about you. When we fully submit to God, He watches over us. His opinion of us is the only one that matters. He has sent His Holy Spirit to comfort us and to be with us.
Isaiah concludes with this reassuring word: “Weapons made to attack you won’t be successful; words spoken against you won’t hurt at all. My servants, Jerusalem is yours! I, the Lord, promise to bless you with victory.” (v17, CEV).
The Message says it this way: “I’ll see to it that everything works out for the best.” (v17).
Here’s how Paul articulates this in his letter to the church in Rome: “We know that God is always at work for the good of everyone who loves him. They are the ones God has chosen for his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, CEV).
I’m thankful my future is not completely in my own ability or skills or even “luck.” No, our confidence, our trust, and our future is in God’s hands! He’s got this! He’s got you! He will always be kind and merciful to those who love Him.
If you’re new to this journey through Isaiah, you can start here.
(c) 2020. Rich Ronald.
RichRonald.com 