Today’s Tasting: Isaiah 49-53
In our reading today, Isaiah tells us of the coming of Jesus and the fate of the wicked as well as the righteous. God’s promises to us are repeated here as we are reminded of His covenant with Abraham and Moses, and His faithfulness to those who are faithful to Him. We are told to “fear not the reproach of men” (51:7) and that God’s salvation is available for all.
Today’s Nourishment:
Reproach means “an expression of rebuke or disapproval”. It’s pretty easy these days to get caught up in fearing the “reproach of men”. It seems that everywhere we look, someone or some organization is disapproving of God and Christianity. Righteousness is being tossed away at record speed as our “me society” seeks instant gratification and approval for actions of their choosing.
Behold, all you who attempt to kindle your own fires, who surround and gird yourselves with momentary sparks, darts, and firebrands that you set aflame!—walk by the light of your self-made fire and of the sparks that you have kindled! But this shall you have from My hand: you shall lie down in grief and in torment. Isa 50:11
God tells us not to be afraid…not to give in to temptation…but rather, look to Him. He has been faithful for all time and he will continue to be faithful to us today.
Trust Him…lean on Him…worship Him…listen to Him!!
Tomorrow’s Delight: Isaiah 54-58
Hugs & Blessings,
Monica
Amen, Monica! God’s salvation is available to all. As I studied these chapters, I was reminded of something that I heard someone recently say about our Redeemer prophesied in Isaiah 53:5. “He was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace (wholeness and completeness for soul-spirit-body, emphasis mine) and with his stripes (related to fellowship, emphasis mine) we are healed.” I keep thinking of “by fellowship with Him, we are healed in soul-spirit-body.” I long for such fellowship with Him. It is in our fellowship with Him, we are not afraid, we don’t give in to temptation, and we trust and lean on Him!