Hope of Light in a Dark World

O. T. #1702  "Hope of Light in a Dark World"
June 1, 2020
Isaiah 60
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. (verse 1)

LET IT GLOW

Some people suffer more than others. We don't know why that is. Evil is around us, trying to destroy the believers of Jesus and their witness. However, let us not blame God for everything that happens in our life, especially the bad things. One day, God will be victorious over all of the evil. In the death and resurrection of Jesus Chris,t Satan was confronted and Jesus won! He is our hope and comfort.
[Resource: Billy Graham's devotional book, Wisdom for Each Day]

In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world! (John 16:33)

On the timeline of future events, Charles Swindoll notes four events in his book, Insights on Revelation:

1. The Gospel will be preached to all nations, then the rapture of the church/believers (1 Thess. 4:13-18).
2. Then during the seven year tribulation, with 3 1/2 years of deception of the antichrist and 3 1/2 years of his reigning (Rev. 4-19). The Battle of Armageddon mentioned in Rev. 16:13-16.
3. Next, the second coming of Christ (Rev. 19:11-21), when He restores Israel and reigns 1,000 years of peace on earth.
4. Last, the Great White Throne judgment (Rev. 20:11-15) which leads to the new heaven and new earth, and finally eternity.

LET IT GROW

Now, with that said, Isaiah is prophesying hope for Israel. Instead of groping in darkness, Israel is commanded to:

• Arise, which means make to stand up; abide; strengthen; continue;
• and shine, which refers to be (make) luminous; (give, show) light.

How is it that Israel will be able to rise and shine? Their Redeemer, Jesus Christ, their light, is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.

As the sun rises to dispel the darkness, so the glory of the Lord will rise to dispel spiritual darkness for Israel. Jesus is the Light of the world. He will reign as King of kings and LORD of lords; with the beauty and radiance of the Lord shining upon Zion, Jerusalem. (verse 2) (Falwell)
The Jews will believe in Jesus as their Messiah and the Gentiles will come to Him, also. The riches of the gentile nations will all be delivered to Israel. (verse 5)

What a day that will be!
How does that apply to us today? When we come to Jesus, He gives us strength to carry on, even in the midst of suffering. We must hold onto Him as our Hope.
Is His light shining through us into a darkened, sinful world?

Jesus said, in Matthew 5:16, Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

LET IT GO
Jesus, You are the Light of the world.
Shine on our heart.
May our good works glorify You.