Does a loving God reject People?

 Read Jeremiah 6.

Are there any more sobering words in the universe than "the LORD has rejected them"? (v.30)  Yes.

While the context has to do with Judah experiencing God's punishment with 70 years of captivity, there are words even more devastating.  Jesus foretold of the final judgment when He will say to those who rejected Him, "Depart from me, you cursed into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels." (Matthew 25:41)  "And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:15)

In His steadfast love and grace, the LORD sent spokesmen to warn the people about their sin.  He offered forgiveness and restoration of themselves and their nation.  In His patience, God waited for them to respond.  "Behold, the word of the LORD is to them an object of scorn; they take no pleasure in it.  Therefore I am full of the wrath of the LORD; I am weary of holding it in." (vv.10b-11)

The false prophets kept preaching, "'Peace, peace', when there is no peace." (v.14)

They could have experienced God's blessings instead.  They had a choice but refused to take it.  "They have not paid attention to my words; and as for my law, they have rejected it." (v.19)

What did God want them to do?  They had spiritually lost their way.  The comparison in verse 16 is that of a traveler who took the wrong turn.  Instead of trying to figure it out on your own and making matters worse, just admit you are lost and go back to the place you know is right.  Pride keeps us going in the wrong direction.
1. "Ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is."
The Bible was complete by the end of the first century A.D. and it is the only authoritative source of knowing God, receiving forgiveness of sin, and having eternal life.  Indeed, it is good news and the good way.

2. "Walk in it."
When one experiences a personal relationship with the LORD, there is a responsibility to keep learning and living for Him each day.

3. "Find rest for your souls."
The results are beyond compare.  Instead of aimlessly wandering through life, a follower of Jesus lives on purpose.  The storms of life come but "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7)

 

What will you do when the end Comes?

 Read Jeremiah 5.

The people of the city of Jerusalem had become so corrupt that there was not one person "who does justice and seeks truth."  Jeremiah thought that perhaps this was due to ignorance.  The people did not know what God expected.  But he discovered that the same corruption of sin existed among those who knew better.

The LORD reminded them of some of His blessings.  He provided for them and took care of them.  Yet, they used their health and strength to sin.  Even when warned by the prophets of God, they said, "He will do nothing; no disaster will come upon us." (v.12)  The false prophets and priests kept up their messages of encouragement, peace and prosperity.  It was popular preaching.  "My people love to have it so." (v.31a)

God's judgment came, just as He said.  "As you have forsaken me and served foreign gods in your land, so you shall serve foreigners in a land that is not yours."  Some lost their lives.  All lost their homes, possessions, and the nation.  The Babylonians overran them like attacking wild animals (v.6).

The people of Judah were not prepared for what was about to take place.  They thought everything would continue as it has been and become even better in the future.   God's question to them was, "But what will you do when the end comes?" (v.31b)

Just as they were warned and God's temporary judgment fell upon Judah, in the same manner every person must answer God's question about the end of this life and eternal judgment for personal sin.

The return of Christ is an unfulfilled fact.  Judgment is coming upon all the ungodly.  Hell is real; a place of eternal punishment for those who reject God's offer of forgiveness in Jesus.  "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed." (2 Peter 3:10)

For those of us who know the truth, be prepared.  For those who do not know, the clear message is to prepare now.  Forgiveness from Jesus and eternal life is only a prayer away.

 

3 mistakes that will bring God's Judgment

 Read Jeremiah 4.

"Return," the LORD declared to His wayward people.  But they did not.

Jeremiah saw the consequences for Judah in advance.  The coming events were terrifying.  "Blow the trumpet" of warning.  Sound the alarm.  "Cry aloud."  Why?  Because God's judgment on the nation's sin was about to take place.  "The fierce anger of the LORD" (v.8) will come in the form of an enemy "from the north" (v.6).

Sure enough, God used the Babylonians to destroy the land and take many of the people away as captives.  The invasion is described as being like a lion charging out of his hiding place to attack his prey (v.7).  They would sweep across the land as quickly and brutally as a scorching hot wind (v.11).  "Chariots like the whirlwind; his horses are swifter than eagles" (v.13).  The people of Judah would run for their lives, leaving their cities deserted.

What caused God to drop His protection and allow this to happen?
"Your ways and your deeds have brought this upon you." (v.18)

What did they do exactly to cause this judgment?
1. They refused to remove the "detestable things" from their lives and turn wholeheartedly to God. (v.1)
The people loved their sin more than wanting to live for the LORD.

2. They listened to the wrong people and believed a false message of hope. (vv.9-10).
The prophets of God had been warning them all along and calling the nation to repent.  But false prophets and ungodly leaders spoke only of peace and prosperity.  When the disaster struck, some then would blame God for not telling the truth.  He did tell them the truth.  They did not want to hear it and so they turned to those who had a message they liked better.

3. They learned about evil instead of learning how to live for God.  (v.22)
"For my people are foolish; they know me not; they are stupid children; they have no understanding.  They are 'wise'--in doing evil!  But how to do good they know not."  Dr. Bill Bright used to say that people are not Gospel hardened.  They are Gospel ignorant.  They have either never heard or never taken the time to know a real relationship with God and discover the truth from His word. 

Out of His goodness, the Lord continues to call for individuals to come to Him.

 

 

Spiritual Adultery

 Read Jeremiah 3.

God's people are depicted as a wife and the LORD as the husband.  There was a commitment for life to exclusive love.  But, Judah had not only turned away from God, she gave her spiritual affections to anything and anyone who came along. 

Judah continued to act this way without shame.  Meanwhile, regarding the LORD, the people claimed, "My father, you are the friend of my youth..." (v.4).  This is much like those who went to church early in life, perhaps even made a profession of faith, but their living betrays the faith they claim.

So, God withheld His blessings on the land (v.3).  The people seemed to not have made the connection between their sin and what was happening to them.  In addition, they did not pay attention and take to heart what had happened to those around them.  God judged Israel and the northern kingdom fell.  Judah thought they could continue to do whatever they wanted and get away with it.  No one gets away with sin.

Yet, like a grieving husband, the LORD in His great mercy still called to them.  Three times He urged them to "Return."  When a person comes to realize the fathomless love of God and how great His mercy is, they humbly will repent of their wrong-doing and return.

What does God want when the wayward returns?
1. Acknowledge the guilt. (v.13)
First, one must realize they are guilty of violating God's claim upon their lives and confess their sin to Him.

2. Believe that He alone is LORD. (v.23)
Pursuing all other spiritual lovers is adulterous.  God will not share His glory with anyone or anything else.  It must be an exclusive and eternal commitment.

3. Experience the results. (v.22)
God promises, "I will heal your faithlessness."  There is only one cure in the universe for sin and shame.  There is only one source of forgiveness.  Jesus has paid our debt on the cross, once and for all.

 

 

Have you Forgotten?

 Read Jeremiah 2.

God called Jeremiah to be His spokesperson.  Next, He began to give this new prophet the messages to deliver on His behalf. 

At the end of Genesis, the descendants of Abraham were still a family.  In Exodus the Jews developed into a nation of people.  Their freedom from slavery is consistently looked back upon as a starting point in their national relationship with the LORD.  What characterized them in those early days?  Israel may have forgotten, but God remembered very well and said so in verses 2-3.

1. Your devotion.
In Hebrew the word is "kindness" and refers to how they responded to God.  He had rescued them from the intolerable bondage of Egypt.  He had demonstrated His power for them time after time.  How could they not be fully devoted to Him?

2. Your love.
They had intense, emotional affection for the LORD.  The comparison is those feelings a bride has for her groom.  She cannot wait to be with the object of his love.

3. Your following me.
Like a couple in love walking everywhere together is how God viewed their early days of relationship.  They willingly followed Him wherever He directed.  He led them through the Red Sea and into a wilderness with no resources.  Yet, He supplied all their needs.
 
4. Your holiness.
Just as the first part of the harvest was to be treated as sacred and given to the LORD in appreciation, so Israel was set apart to Himself.  They were not to be like everyone else.  They were His people and were to represent Him faithfully to an unbelieving world.

What happened?  That is God's question in this chapter.  The answer is they forgot.  They took Him for granted.  Instead of remembering that He is the Creator, they became evolutionists and believed they originated from other sources (v.17).  They worshiped things of their own invention.  They "went after worthlessness, and became worthless" (v.5b).

In Revelation 2:4, Jesus called out the church at Ephesus for having "abandoned the love you had at first."  It is good for us to intentionally and regularly remember how God delivered us, saved us, forgave us, and how we promised our lives to follow Christ at the beginning.  Every day can be/should be a renewal of our love and devotion to Jesus.

To be used of God

 Read Jeremiah 1.

He was born the son of a priest who served the tribe of Benjamin in the kingdom of Judah.  His ministry spanned from 627 B.C to 586 B.C. when Judah was taken captive by the Babylonians.  Though his preaching primarily targeted Judah, his appointment was to the Gentiles also ("nations" v.5).

What do we learn about God and ourselves here in reading this chapter?
1. God has preconception knowledge about each life. (v.5a)
The LORD is not only aware of us in advance due to His Omniscience, but knows every intimate detail about us.

2. God is the giver of each life. (v.5b)
As Psalm 139 explains, we are not biological accidents.  In the womb, our loving LORD sees and superintends who we are from the very beginning.  Life begins before our date of birth.

3. God has plans for each life. (v.5c)
The LORD does not waste His time.  He has a purpose for every individual and their being alive.  With God as the Owner of life and the planner of life, it is only when one aligns themselves with Him that true fulfillment may be realized.

4. God has an appointment for each life. (v.5d)
His plan has specific times and places for it to be carried out.  Things that are alive grow and develop in seasons.  The way God chooses to use an individual and the places of their influence most often changes over time. 

Jeremiah's response to God's plan for his life is typical.  He expressed his inadequacy.  God reassured him with His promises.  We are God's design, not our own.  It is His plan, not ours.  He is "watching over my word to perform it" (v.11).  Ours is the privilege and honor to be used of God in whatever way He chooses. 

 

Thy Kingdom Come

 Read Isaiah 66.

In this culmination of the book, there are some recurring themes.
1. God, as Creator, owns all things in heaven and on earth. (vv.1-2)

2. Outward displays of worship are to reflect a humble spirit that trembles at the Word of God. (vv.3-5a)

3. God will put all His enemies to shame and punishment. (vv.5b-6)

4. God will keep every one of His promises to the nation of Israel. (vv.22)

When Messiah appears, as described in Revelation 19:11-21, there will be a decisive and deadly dealing with the enemies of God and Israel.  The Jews will see an immediate new birth of their nation, both literally and spiritually.  With Jesus on the throne in Jerusalem, Israel will be:
1. A place of rejoicing. (vv.10-11)

2. A place of peace. (v.12)

3. A place of comfort. (v.13)

4. A place to see the glory of God. (v.18)

5. A place that sends missionaries with the good news of Jesus to the rest of the world. (v.19)

"Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection!  Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years." (Revelation 20:6)

 

A contrast of two types of People

 Read Isaiah 65.

After a chapter and a half of prayer, asking for God's intervention, He responds. 

Even though God chose to unfold His story of redemption through the family of Abraham, the LORD has always been available to all people of every nation.  In these opening verses, consider the depiction of God's message for the Gentiles.  He calls to them, "Here I am." 

To Israel, His arms are open wide "all the day."  But of these whom He chose to bear His name to the world, God only sees rebellion.  In acts of blatant self-righteousness, they made up their own religion for life-guidance and worship.  Instead of humility before the LORD, they felt their way to be better.  So much so that verse 5 is the origin of the phrase "holier than thou."

Regardless of nationality, God divides humanity into two types of people.
1. Those who seek Him. (v.10)
A relationship with the LORD is waiting for those who seek Him.  As the Good Shepherd, He leads His people like a flock into safe places.  He provides for their needs.

2. Those who do not seek Him. (v.11-12)
The consequences are severe.  Why is there such harshness in this wording?  Note the three times God says "did not."   "Because, when I called, you did not answer; when I spoke, you did not listen, but you did what was evil in my eyes and chose what I did not delight in."

The contrast of the diverse futures for these two continues in verses 13-16.

Every person who ever lived fits into one of these two types of people.  "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him." (John 3:36)

 

Praying and Waiting

 Read Isaiah 64.

This prophetic prayer that began in chapter 63 continues.  The wording looks forward to a believing Jewish remnant of captives calling out to God for His presence and power.

It will be no secret as to why they ended up in Babylon and why their homeland was destroyed.  Even the burning of Solomon's Temple is mentioned in verse 11.  The cause of these losses was due to their disobedience to God.  Separated from God, their best self-efforts could never atone for their sin.
"We have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.  We all fade like a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, take us away." (v.6)

In humility, they will come to realize the sovereignty of the LORD and they will desire to surrender themselves to Him completely.  They will call Him "our Father", emphasizing a personal relationship.  They will refer to themselves as a clay in the potter's hand.  (v.8)

Such restoration for which they cry is a spiritual work that only God can do.  It does not happen through natural means.  "From of old no one has heard or perceived by the ear, no eye has seen a God besides you..." (v.4a)  Jesus compared the work of the Holy Spirit in a person's life like wind blowing through the trees (John 3:8).  We cannot see the Spirit; only the effects.  The Apostle Paul referred to Isaiah 64:4a in 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 and then stated in the rest of the sentence, "these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit."  That is wonderful news for believers in Jesus today.

Now more good news.  God "acts for those who wait for him.  You meet him who joyfully works righteousness, those who remember you in your ways" (vv.4-5a).  Calling upon God in such a manner and depending upon Him will be worth the wait.

 

God keeps His Promises

 Read Isaiah 63.

Not every promise in the Bible is one we want to claim.  God in His faithfulness has or will fulfill every one of them.  This chapter contains three promised messages.

1.  The Promised Punishment of Enemies. (vv.1-6)
Not everyone will be glad when Jesus comes the second time.  Israel will experience a spiritual revival and national restoration.  But the enemies of God will experience His vengeance.  The passage describes the Messiah having come from a bloody battle, where He alone fought against the opposition.  The awesome appearance of Jesus in Revelation 19 states, "He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God....From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations..." (Revelation 19:13-15)

2.  The Promised Punishment of Judah. (vv.7-14)
Isaiah wrote this about a hundred years in advance to help those who would be experiencing the Babylonian captivity to understand what happened to them.  He reminded Judah of God's "steadfast love," His "great goodness," His "compassion," and His "pity" for them.  The LORD consistently provided deliverance for the nation during their times of trouble and affliction.  But despite all that He had done, "they rebelled" (v.10).  This was not an organized demonstration against God, but a rebellion of the heart displayed in their disobedient life.  They "grieved his Holy Spirit."  This is the only time that phrase appears in the Old Testament.  The Apostle Paul warned believers not to "grieve the Holy Spirit of God" by speaking in an unkind and unforgiving manner (Ephesians 4:29-32).

3.   The Prophesied Prayer of Judah. (vv.15-19)
The prayer for the nation begins here and continues into chapter 64.  It is a cry for God to show His power.  Their petition is based upon the unconditional promise God made to Abraham in Genesis 12 (v.16).  The LORD is referred to as "our Father" and "our Redeemer" (v.16).  Though this was written far in advance, Isaiah mentioned that Solomon's beautiful Temple will be "trampled down" by the Babylonians.  With all their losses, the nation will appear as if they never had a relationship with God. 

Gratefully, for us, "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.  For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death." (Romans 8:1-2)  Live according to that promise today.

 

What's in a Name?

 Read Isaiah 62. 

When Messiah restores Israel, the nation will shine as a light to the entire world and will serve as a crowning adornment to God's work in the world (vv.1-3).

Names in the Bible were given based upon their meaning.  Israel and the Jews in particular, have been described in many ways over the centuries.  Some of them such as "forsaken" or “deserted” (v.4 and v.12) were used because it appeared that God had left them.  That was not true, of course.  It was their sin that separated them from God.  But when Jesus establishes His rule in Jerusalem, they will be known by a set of new names.

Though these are prophecies to be literally fulfilled in the Millennium, there are direct spiritual applications to all those who personally know the LORD.

1. My Delight is in Her. (v.4)
Nationally, the visible, reigning presence of Christ in Jerusalem will be proof enough of this name. 
Personally, the psalmist wrote: "He brought me out into a broad place; he rescued me, because he delighted in me." (Psalm 18:19)

2. Married. (v.4-5)
Nationally: The word is actually "Beulah."  In that day, Israel will be a place of peace and joy.  People will flock to live in the land and be committed to it as a married couple is to each other.
Personally: The marriage commitment is to reflect our relationship with Christ (Ephesians 5:22-32). 

3. The Holy People. (v.12a)
Nationally: Because of their personal faith in the Messiah, He  will set them apart to Himself as a sacred people.
Personally: The Apostle Peter declared concerning those who place their faith in Christ: "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called out you of darkness into his marvelous light." (1 Peter 2:9)

4. The Redeemed of the LORD. (v.12b)
Nationally: In the Old Testament, the law required a kinsman to buy back the person or property that needed to be delivered from an encumberment, such as a lien or even slavery.
Personally:  "Knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot." (1 Peter 1:18-19)

5. Sought Out. (v.12c)
Nationally: Instead of being opposed and despised by the world, nations will flock to Israel to bring their wealth and to worship. 
Personally: "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you; yet, do it with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15)

 

Prophecy partly Fulfilled

 Read Isaiah 61.

This chapter unfolds the actions of the coming Messiah and His restoration of believing Israel.  All three persons of the Trinity are present in the first verse: The Spirit, The Lord God, the Messiah. 

According to Luke 4, Jesus attended the synagogue in Nazareth on the Sabbath.  Jesus read the Scriptures that day Isaiah 61:1-2a.  Then, something unusual took place.  Even when He sat down, the people silently stared at Him.  Jesus broke the silence and said, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing." 

There can be absolutely no doubt that Jesus claimed to be the long awaited Messiah, the Son of God.  The people in Luke 4 clearly understood His claim and it angered them.

Note that Jesus did not read the entire passage but stopped in the middle of Isaiah's declarative statements.  This points to the fact that Jesus fulfilled verses 1-2a in His first coming and the rest would take place when He comes again.

There are seven statements of Messiah message and ministry. 
1. In His first advent as Savior, He came to proclaim good news, to heal, and free people from their spiritual bondage.

2. In His second advent as King of Kings, He will take vengeance on the enemies of God, bringing comfort and restoration to Israel.

God's purpose is that they will serve Him and minister to the rest of the world.  They will stand as God's chosen people.  "So the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations." (v.11b).

 

The hope of Israel and joy to the World

 Read Isaiah 60.

Certainly, the captured and scattered people of Israel were looking forward to better days ahead.  But none of the events of their return under Persian rule, nor any time since, can account for the prophecies in this chapter.  Indeed, the Jews continued to be under someone else's rule until 1948.  And, the promised days of prosperity, world homage, and peace have yet to be fulfilled.

When the Messiah returns and establishes His rule in Jerusalem, here is what the nation of Israel will be like.
1. Worldwide Ministry. (vv.1-3)
"Arise and shine."  Israel will not only embrace Jesus as LORD, but the nation they will reflect His glory to the world.  They will literally be attracting the world to Jesus.

2. Worldwide Honor. (vv.4-13)
"Lift up your eyes."  A new Temple will be erected in Jerusalem.  World leaders will come to serve the interests of Israel.  The world's abundance will flow toward this one small land.  The purpose will be for "the praises of the LORD" (v.6), "to beautify my beautiful house" (v.7 and 13).

3. Worldwide Peace. (vv.14-18)
All Israel's enemies will be coming in great humility and acknowledgement of Messiah's reign over them.  With the Prince of Peace in place, world peace will finally be a reality.  God's purpose is not political but "you shall know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob" (v.16b).
The entire nation will be right with God and disputes over the land with its Biblical boundaries will no longer be an issue.  Why?  So "that I might be glorified" (v.21).

How soon will this happen?  "I am the LORD, in its time I will hasten it" (v.22b).  The Disciples knew these prophecies and after the resurrection asked Jesus, "'Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?'  He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority."  Then, Jesus ascended to heaven as they watched.  Two angels declared, "This Jesus who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven" (Acts 1:6-11). 

Today, we look forward to the literal, visible, powerful, personal, and royal return of Christ.

 

If you are not feeling close to God

 Read Isaiah 59.

If you are not feeling close to God, what is the problem?

God had not lost His power to deliver the nation of Israel.  God had not become hard of hearing to their cries for help (v.1).

Humans have a problem.  God calls it sin.  And, it is our personal sin that separates us from a Holy God (v.2).  The LORD names some of the evil and disobedient acts of the people.  As a result, they could find no "peace" (v.8).  Because of their corrupt spiritual condition, the nation knew no "justice" (v.9).  It is described as a dark time in their history.  Like blind men who were lost, they could find no way out (v.10).  All they could do was complain about it (v.11).  It was impossible for them to fix their guilt (v.12).  And, there was no one to intercede for them to make it right (v.16).   

People are helpless to save themselves.  There is no system whereby one may earn merit with God and their way into heaven.  God alone can forgive sin.  When one is willing to come to the LORD, confessing their sin, and seeking His forgiveness, He immediately supplies what is needed. 

When Israel finally turns to the LORD, the promise is that they will be right with God and He will provide spiritual salvation and national deliverance from their enemies.  God receives no glory from sin.  His purpose in offering this to them is so that the other nations "shall fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun" (v.19).

When Messiah returns He will enter Jerusalem as Israel's Redeemer and Restorer.  At that time Jesus will fully implement the New Covenant for the nation.  He will pour out His Spirit upon them and God's word will be in everyone.

It is the same for us today.  Our sin separates us from the LORD.  He has already paid the price for our salvation.  "Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”  (James 4:8)

 

Why aren’t my prayers being answered?

 Read Isaiah 58.

Here is an interesting conflict.  The people sought to know God and His word daily (v.2).  But the people's response was that God did not take notice of what they were doing, including fasting.  So, what was the problem?

They went through the motions of worship, but their hearts and lives were full of disobedience.  First, they needed to be right with the LORD.  Their fasting showed only outward humility (v.3).  God wanted them to humble themselves inwardly by confessing and forsaking their sin (v.5)

When they finished going through the motions of worship, their lives were unchanged (v.4).  They needed to demonstrate a difference, especially in the way that they treated people (vv.6-7). 
Namely:
1. The trapped.  Those who are involved in wicked wrongdoing and cannot get themselves out. Loose them.

2. The oppressed.  Those who are being crushed and struggling to make it in life.  Free them.

3. The hungry.  Those who do not have enough resources to sustain themselves. 
Feed them.

4. The homeless poor.  Those who cannot provide a roof over their heads.
Bring them in.

5. The naked.  Those who lack clothing.  Clothe them.

The LORD said it is such unselfish and loving acts as these that will demonstrate what James called "pure religion and undefiled" (James 1:27).  Not only will the people in need be served but God promised to bless those who serve. 

Once a person is right with God and living and obedient lifestyle, “then” (vv.8-14) prayers are heard and answered.

Where does God Live?

 Read Isaiah 57.

When King Solomon began to build the Temple for God in Jerusalem, he was humbled.  In 2 Chronicles 2:6 he asked, "Who is able to build him a house, since heaven, even highest heaven, cannot contain him?"  True.  Buildings cannot contain this Omni-present God of heaven.  He is everywhere, at once, at all times.

In the opening verses of this chapter, the LORD again chastens the people for their idolatry.  Their false worship led them to unimaginable practices such as orgies and the sacrifice of their own children.  God accused them of "deserting me" (v.8).  His lack of immediate intervention was due to His great patience (v.11), waiting for them to repent of their sin.

 God challenged them in their time of trouble to cry out to these false beliefs for help.  They would find them to be as empty as the wind (v.13a).  "But," (here is the turning point) "he who takes refuge in me" will experience the difference (v.13b).  Yes, God dwells in the heavens.  But He is "also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit" (v.16).

What is that difference He alone can make when we humble ourselves before Him? (vv.18-21)
1. I will heal.
Sin separates us from God and destroys life.  The Messiah came, died for our sin, and "by his wounds we are healed" (53:5)  There is no other source of such forgiveness and healing anywhere.

2. I will lead.
Seeking answers and life-guidance prompts people to place their faith in something.  Everyone does.  But only the LORD leads us in the right way to true life-fulfillment.

3. I will restore comfort.
This is the work of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus called Him the Comforter.  He comes alongside to reassure us of His presence.  He helps us to see beyond the present hurt to find future meaning and value.

The result is a peace that nothing else in the world can give.  Peace with God; satisfying peace within.
"'There is no peace,' says my God, 'for the wicked." (v.21)

It is an amazing thought that the LORD of heaven desires to live with us.

 

What does the LORD expect from Us?

 Read Isaiah 56.

This section of Isaiah continues to give Israel hope for its future.  However, the people need not wait for the Messiah in order to live for God in the present.

What does the LORD expect from His people? (vv.1-2)
1. Justice.
This has to do with legal decisions or doing what is right according to the law of the land.

2. Righteousness.
This has to do with life decisions or doing what is right according to God's expectations.

3. Not profaning His word.
A person who is right with the LORD shows it in how they live publicly.  The one example given here is keeping the Old Testament Sabbath law.  Everyone took notice that they did no labor on Saturday.  But it was only one example.

4. Keeping from evil.
A person who is right with the LORD shows it in how they live privately.  When no one else is watching, God is.

Who is included in God's plan of salvation? (vv.3-8)
Though the Jews are God's chosen people and have an everlasting covenant relationship from Him, His plan always included the rest of the world.  Everyone and anyone who would turn to Him for forgiveness and worship would experience His blessings.  Three examples are given that supersede the Old Testament Law-eunuchs, foreigners, and outcasts.  Compare Deuteronomy 23:1. But this was always in the mind of God.  In Genesis 12:3, God told Abraham, "In you all the families of the earth shall be blessed."

When the religious leaders of Jesus' day tried to squeeze the Gentiles out and restrict the access of others to the Temple, He quoted verse 7 of this chapter.

Where was the root problem? (vv.9-12)
God called for judgment due to corrupt national leaders.  Instead of being on guard spiritually and watching out for the people, they only sought to take care of themselves. 

Let’s live for Jesus regardless of what others do.

 

 

When life does not go our Way

 Read Isaiah 55.

How disappointing and disillusioning it is when life does not go the way we wanted!  The sense of confusion causes some to put their spiritual lives on hold.  Some blame God for their hurt and never come to a place of healing.  Others use such hurt and confusion as an excuse to reject that there is a God.

One of primary concepts about the God of the Bible is found in verses 8 and 9.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

We have our plans.  God has His.  We have our thoughts on how things should be.  God has His.  So, the question is, "Whose thoughts and plans are correct?  Whose thoughts and plans lead to a life of complete fulfillment--our ways or God's?"  Do we possess such arrogance to think for moment that we know better than the One who made us and knows every detail of our lives?

How can we experience a truly fulfilled life?
1. Come to the LORD. (vv.1-5)
Every person has a spiritual thirst, a lack of internal satisfaction.  We naturally try to fill that void with other things, or people, or activities.  In John 4, Jesus met a Samaritan woman who was thirsty, inside and out.  She tried to find satisfaction by going from one relationship to another.  He offered her eternal life so she would "never be thirsty again." 
"Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live." (v.3)

2. Seek the LORD. (v.6a)
People search for life-meaning, life-guidance, self-improvement in every place but the one source that guarantees eternal results.  Repeatedly in the Old Testament and in the New, we are urged to seek God.  Most people who have become disillusioned or rejected God have never read the Bible or sought to understand its message.
"...he rewards those who seek him." (Hebrews 11:6)
"...those who seek me diligently find me." (Proverbs 8:17)

3. Call upon the LORD. (v.6b)
The rest of this verse includes, "...while he is near."  The Holy Spirit pursues us and prompts us to come to the LORD and seek Him for filling that spiritual emptiness inside.  It is a perilous presumption to put off an immediate response to God.  His offer of forgiveness, cleansing of our past, and eternally securing our future is available now.
"Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says, 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts..." (Hebrews 3:7)

Is God through with Israel?

 Read Isaiah 54.

Having presented the Suffering Savior who paid the price for our sins in the previous chapter, here the focus turns to His second coming.  He will reign as King of Kings.

Israel suffered the shame and punishment of God's judgment.  This chapter is a call for singing and rejoicing as they look forward to their national future.  Yes, for a "brief moment" (v.7) God had to severely deal with their sin.  But that did not change His promises to Abraham.

How long will God have compassion on Israel and love them as His chosen people?
"'In overflowing anger for a moment I hid my face from you, but with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,' says the LORD, your Redeemer." (v.8)

"'For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you and my covenant of peace shall not be removed.' says the LORD, who has compassion on you.'" (v.10)

Was not this fulfilled with their return from captivity five centuries before Christ?
Notice God's promises. 
1. The Jewish population will increase to far exceed their ability to all live on that land. (v.3)
2. Everyone will know the LORD and all their children will be taught to know Him. (v.13)
3. The nation will be safe from all threats. (v.14)
4. No enemy will succeed against them. (v.15-17a)

While these promises are prophetic and will be fulfilled literally one day, in the meantime God is at work today.  The spiritual family of God has been widened with the grafting in of believers from all nations.  See Romans 11:11-24.  God's character and treatment of His servants is the same, Jew and Gentile alike.  He loves us with an everlasting love and that will not change.

 

The astounding results of Messiah's Death

 Read Isaiah 53.

This portion of Isaiah is one of the most sacred of all.  As one reads it, there is a sense of being on holy ground.  The immediate context for this chapter begins with 52:13.  The Servant, as this passage explains, is none other than the Messiah.  Keep in mind that this was written some 700 years before these events took place.

1. Why did Jesus die on the cross?
He was sinless.  He did nothing wrong.  We sinned.  We deserved the punishment.  But in the plan of God, the Son was sent to be the Savior of the world.  He took upon Himself what we deserved and became our substitute.
"For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (2 Corinthians 5:21)

2. For whom did He die?
He died for "every one" (v.6) because every person who ever lived since Adam has the curse of sin upon them.  The description in verse 6 is that of sheep wandering off, going their own way, from the shepherd to whom they belong.  That is the essence of all sin.  It was "our transgressions," "our iniquities," our sin that put Jesus on the cross.
"He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world."
(1 John 2:2)

3. What are the results?
His death on the cross "brought us peace" with God (v.5).  It provided spiritual healing of our sin and the hurt that it causes.  It satisfied the righteous demands of a Holy God (v.11).  Instead of seeing us as sinners, the LORD declares those who place their eternal trust in Him as righteous or right with Him.  He now is our advocate in heaven, interceding on our behalf.

4. Was His death the end?
So many who claim faith in Jesus still see Him hanging on the cross bleeding.  In John 19:30, Jesus declared, "It is finished."  That was business term of His day indicating the debt had been paid in full.  And, the story does not stop there.  Verse 10 states that after Messiah's death, He will live.  There will be a spiritual family who will enjoy all the blessings of faith in Christ.  The resurrection of Jesus is the proof of His continuing ministry on our behalf.  He is our living Advocate in heaven.
"Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them." (Hebrews 7:25)

The Apostle John summed up much of this chapter's message.
"He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him.  He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.  But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." (John 1:10-12)

Is there any good news Today?

 Read Isaiah 52.

The Jews have a discouraging history to say the least.  But each time an enemy sought to destroy them, the LORD intervened.  Because of the number of years involved there were and are those who lost hope in God's promises.  God never forgets what He said.  He acts exactly on His schedule to fulfill His plans.

Historically, the Jews were in Egypt for 400 years.  But God delivered them from slavery.  In this chapter, the northern kingdom of Israel had been conquered and the people were scattered at the hands of Assyria.  The southern kingdom of Judah had been taken captive by Babylonia.  They remained in Babylon for 70 years. 

The nation was in need of a comforting message; some good news of hope. 
The message is, "Wake up and get ready!  You are going home." (vv.1-2)

There are two aspects to this prophecy.  Immediately, in 536 B.C., the Jews returned to their homeland. This would take place at no cost to them.  The Persians paid for it and the nation was redeemed by God's free grace.  But the details in this chapter obviously speak of much more that has yet to happen.  Note the little prophetic phrase "in that day" (v.6).  What will that day be like?

1. Everyone will know the LORD. (v.6b)
No more will they be in doubt about who God is or turn to other forms of worship.  Spiritual allegiance will be to Him alone.

2. It will be a time of good news. (vv.7-9)
After decades of prophecies warning of God's judgment, here is news of peace, happiness, salvation, comfort, and redemption.

3. The LORD will reign. (vv.7b-15)
This is the key reason for the celebration.  There is no denying that Messiah will one day literally sit on the throne of David in Jerusalem.  As Isaiah wrote in 9:6, "the government shall be upon his shoulders."  The Messiah ("my servant" v.13) will assume world power.  He will "sprinkle" or startle the nations (v.15) and all the world's leaders will be silent before Him.

What a contrast from the first coming of Jesus.  Verse 14 prophesies His physical appearance after being beaten and crucified.  This description was written over 500 years in advance!

But another 2000 years have gone by since Jesus' ascension back to heaven.  That is not a problem for God.  He has not forgotten.  He will act in His time.  Our good news to a world without hope is that Jesus is coming!  Now is the time to get ready and be prepared.