Joy and Grace

O. T. #1723  "Joy and Grace"
June 30, 2020
Isaiah 66-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

This week we are dog sitting Princess, our granddaughter's dog, while they are vacationing at the beach. She is a joy to have at our house. Although, I admit that it is an adjustment having an inside dog, which has needs. We go for a walk in the cool of the summer mornings, which is good for me. Princess is getting old now, with some gray hairs, and she likes to take naps. Now that is not a bad thing for me. Anyway, she makes me smile and I can talk to her instead of myself. :)
Could you use some joy in your life today? Read on, friend, for verses 10-16 has some just for you.

In verse 9, God is asking a rhetorical question and implies the answer, no!
"Shall I bring to the point of birth and not cause to bring forth?" says the LORD; "shall I, who cause to bring forth, shut the womb?" says your God. (English Standard Version)

God would not ever bring Israel to the point of birth and then not deliver it. No, He would never keep this nation from being born. (from NLT)

What will happen during the Millennium reign of Jesus?

• Should God bring Israel this far through all of these difficulties and not bring forth converted Israel to the full blessing of the Millennium? Jews will be saved during this time. How wonderful for them to believe in Jesus as the Savior Messiah and Son of God.
• Nations will look to Jerusalem for spiritual nourishment. Jerusalem will be God's capital on earth then. This will happen so quickly like a woman in labor delivering her baby. (verse 7)
• We can rejoice with Jerusalem, be glad with her, love her, and rejoice for joy with her. (verse 10)
• We can drink deeply of her glory and be delighted, even as an infant drinks its mother's milk. (verse 11)
• There will be peace like a mighty river, which represents a never-dwindling supply of water, whose ultimate source of all spiritual life is God Himself. (verse 12)
• God will comfort everyone, as a mother comforts her child. (verse 13)
• Israel's bones shall flourish in her national conversion and rebirth. (Ezekiel 37); your heart shall rejoice; everyone will see the Lord's hand of blessing on His servants. (verse 14)

[Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

Our heavenly Father is our source of comfort and satisfaction.

You, too, can rest peacefully knowing that Someone will always be close to you, tending to every need. The Lord is your father, friend, husband, brother and mother. He is everything to you, just as a parent is to a child. so during this season, when everything seems a little out of control, a little crazy, if you are feeling the heavy burdens of being an adult, take a moment to talk to the Lord as would a child. He longs to pick you up and wrap you tenderly in His care. And in His arms, you will find rest. (Joni Eareckson Tada's Diamonds in the Dust)

Nothing will compare with the joy that is coming.
... for the joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah 8:10)

Such joy it is to be able to attend worship services again with believers! It just isn't the same as watching a video, is it? We need those contacts with others, even if we have to sit a distance away from each other.

LET IT GROW

There is another side to this coin, so to speak. Peace and joy will be with believers.

How does The MacArthur Bible Commentary explain verses 15-19?

• Prosperity will belong to the faithful remnant, but wrath to those who oppose the Lord.
• That wrath of God will come to the rebels is expressed in language describing the end-time judgment (29:6).
• The many who fight against the Lord when He comes to establish His kingdom will die (Rev. 19:21).

The LORD will come with fire, with His chariots like a whirlwind, to render His anger with fury. (verse 15) 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8 pictures Christ's second coming. He will render severe judgment with fire and His sword, slaying many. Their abomination (the hateful thing) acts of man will consume them, for God knows their works and their thoughts.

With the miraculous rebirth of Israel, those converted Israelites who escape the Tribulation to come, will be sent by God as Christian believers into the nations. They will share the good news of Jesus Christ to those who have not heard of His fame, nor seen His glory. Glory is a visible manifestation of God, which appears 45 times in the Old Testament. (Falwell)

Are we sharing the gospel of Jesus, His saving grace, and that He dwells within us personally?

LET IT GO
What kind of person am I? What kind of person are you?
Are we loving God, our family, friends, neighbors, and unchurched people?
Are we a joyful Christian today?
Are we gracious to others?

Which Way Are We Going?

O. T. #1722  "Which Way Are We Going?"
June 29, 2020
Isaiah 66-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

There are many different ways available for us to live our life, philosophies and religions to follow, even our own way. Some say that many roads lead to heaven and to God, but that is not true, friend. Let me tell you up front, that I have found the one true way-through Jesus Christ.

You might ask, like Thomas did in the previous verse, "How can we know the way?"
It was like Thomas wasn't sure which way to go when he asked Jesus, "How can we know the way?"
"The way" isn't a path; it's a person. In John 14:6, Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

The Lord Jesus Christ is the universal point of access to God. There is no other entrance into heaven. If you want to know the Father, you must come to Him through His Son. Jesus assured Thomas that if he knew the Son, he knew the Father (John 14:7) 

[Resource: The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

I like to put this emphasis: Jesus is The Way, The Truth, and The Life. Jesus in the one and only way to get to heaven, as well as to God. His way is right; His Words are truth because He is Truth; He shows us the way to life since He is Life, the resurrection and the Life.

Dear one, if you want to have eternal life in heaven, then you must come to Jesus, believing He is the Only Way. Ask Him to forgive your sins and be your Savior. He loves you so much that He has provided The Way for you.

Now, with that said, read verses 3-9 in this chapter. There are two pathways available for us to choose to follow in this life: God's pathway of righteousness or our own way of wickedness.

Walking on God's pathway is not always easy but we find blessings in following Him:

• He dwells in person that is poor in spirit (need Him) and has a contrite (smitten, maimed, or dejected) heart, and trembles at God's Word. (verse 2)
• We call upon God in prayer and He answers; He hears our cry before we speak it and brings it to pass before we call upon Him. (65:24)
• We hear and tremble (fearful; reverential) at the Word of the Lord and repent of our sins, then heed it. (verse 5)
• God will appear to be our joy as He is glorified (divine splendor),even when we are hated by the unsaved and cast (to exclude, banish, drive, put far away) by the brethren.
• He will give us comfort. (verse 13)

Will we continue to follow Jesus on that narrow pathway? 
Are we a humble person that has profound reverence for God and His Word?
Do we take His Word seriously and obey it?
May we not stray from being a faithful servant. We can have a life of love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, and kindness when we submit to the Holy Spirit.

LET IT GROW

The other pathway is one own way, which is a path of wickedness because our natural heart is sinful.
What do these people do?

• They have a heart not of brokenness, but of shallow hypocrisy, kills a child, offers a dog, sacrifices pig's blood, blesses an idol, and loves such abominations toward God. (verse 3)
• They will be ashamed of the manner in which they treated believers in Jesus. (verse 5)

There is only one way, not many ways, which lead to God and heaven-the person Jesus Christ.
God shows mercy to the humble, but He curses the proud and self-sufficient (Luke 1:51-53). Although our society urges us to be assertive and affirm our self, don't let our freedom and right to choose lead us away from God's pathway to eternal life with Him.

LET IT GO

He gives life, hope, restoration, salvation.
Great are You Lord Jesus!
It's Your breath in our lungs, so we pour out our praise, pour out our praise to You, Holy Lord Jesus!
You are way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness, my God, that is who You are. I worship You, my God.
What great things You have done!

How big is Your God?

O. T. #1721  "How big is Your God?"
June 26, 2020
Isaiah 66

LET IT GLOW

Here we are at the last chapter of this prophetic book is a fitting climax. We began this journey on November 5, 2019. Thank you, friend, for continuing with me on such a long walk of faith. What is there left for God to tell us, through Isaiah?

1. Heaven is God's throne earth is His footstool.

The passage points to the magnitude and immensity of God, who is greater than the heavens themselves. He is the God who does not really need a temple. There is no house or place that man can build that shall contain or confine God. Even Solomon's temple, in which the glory of the Lord dwelt as a representation of His presence with Israel, can only be referred to as the dwelling place of God in a symbolic sense. (Liberty Bible Commentary)


Even the beautiful temple in Jerusalem was woefully inadequate for a God who is present everywhere. God cannot be confined in any human structure (2 Chron. 6:18; Acts 7:49-50)
(Life Application Study Bible)

The deacon Stephen quoted this verse, among many, as he stood before the Jewish council of religious leaders. They accused falsely Stephen of the same thing as Jesus-wanting to change Moses' customs. That group was hung up on meticulously following the Law that they did not recognize that God is everywhere, even among them in the form of Jesus.

Can we get a sliver of understanding of how big our God is?

Heaven is the throne of His glory and government; there God sits, infinitely above all blessing and praise. The earth is His footstool, on which He stands, overruling all the affairs of it according to His will. (Matthew Henry)

Can a house or temple built be the residence of God's glory? Nothing can contain Him.
Wow! I tend to make my God small, but He is not. So nothing is bigger than our God.

Nothing is impossible with God. (Luke 1:37) Do you have a need that our Almighty God can meet?
Lay it at His feet.

How big is your God? Can He handle anything that come to you and me today? Definitely!

LET IT GROW

2. All those things God has made.

What things are in your little world that you enjoy, things which God has made?
Just Monday, I saw a fawn with white spots trotting down my country road. then Wednesday, I saw a doe in our field. I think they were looking for each other, so I asked God to direct them to each other, so the fawn would live.

Last week my mammy cat brought her two kittens up on my porch for them to eat. I have been feeding them kitten food and trying to tame them. They are so cute; one is orange like her and one is calico and fluffy with white feet. I really am enjoying them, watching them play together.

Then, yesterday, I had lunch with a childhood friend. It was the first time we had been together since September. What a blessing she is. We celebrate our birthdays, mine in June and hers in July, with lunch, treating each other.

Those are just some new blessings God has given me recently. How about you?

LET IT GO

What a mighty God we serve! How great You are!
Nothing is bigger than You, God.

All Things New

O. T. #1720  "All Things New"
June 25, 2020
Isaiah 65-Part 3
For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. (verse 17)

LET IT GLOW

This chapter is so exciting. In verses 17-25, we read about eternity, after the millennium reign of Christ. What is it going to be like for Christians that live in their new home forever? What will we experience?

• God will create a new heavens and a new earth, an eternal state. (verse 17)
• The former things will not be remembered and not come to our mind. (verse 17)
• There will be no more sea. (Rev. 21:1)
• The Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God-Jesus Christ, will be there. (Rev. 3:14)
• God Himself shall be with us and be our God and will dwell with us. (Rev. 21:3)
• We will be glad and rejoice forever.
• In the New Jerusalem, there will be no more weeping and crying, but it will be a city of rejoicing. (verse 18) Rev. 21:4
• God will rejoice in Jerusalem and joy in His people. (verse 19)
• The longevity of life will be changed, no infants nor seniors. (verse 20)
• There will be no more death nor pain. (Rev. 21:4)
• There will be no more temple, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. (Rev. 21:22)
• No more sun or moon to shine, for the glory of God will lighten it and the Lamb is the light. (Rev. 21:23)
• There will be no more night and the gates of the city will never be shut. (Rev. 21:25)
• Streets will be made of pure gold and there will be 12 pearly gates. (Rev. 21:21)

We live in a sinful world right now. We have troubles, trials, and tribulations. We weep and cry, worry and plan, bad things happen to good people in our present world. It won't be that way in the Eternal City.

So be sure you are a citizen of this future city. The only way for this to be is believing in Jesus Christ and Him being your Savior. I sure want to meet all of you, dear friends.
Is your name written in the Lamb's Book of Life?
Don't we want our loved ones there with us, too? I need to help them get prepared.

LET IT GROW

Just to let you know, some commentators suggest those things listed above will be experienced during the 1,000 year reign of Christ here on earth.
What will those experience that go into the Millennium Reign of Christ?

• They will have safety, peace, and plenty available.
• They will have property (build houses) and prosperity (crops will be planted and harvested without destruction);
• stability (enjoy the work of their hands) and permanence;
• the animal kingdom will be at peace;
• the Jews will believe in Jesus as The Messiah and source of salvation;
• God will hear and answer prayers instantly;
• Satan will be bound and soon will be cast out forever.

What a blessed time to live! Neighbors will love each other, no family quarrels, no deceptions, and all will be worshiping Jesus Christ together.
Are we ready for this new way of life!


LET IT GO
It is all in Your hands, Everlasting Father and in Your timing.
Great are You Lord!
Your name is great and Your heart is kind.
We pour out our praise to You, Almighty God, King Jesus, and Holy Spirit!
Your Word is true and we are trusting You to take care of us today, for our breath is in Your hands.

Joy of Heart

O. T. #1719  "Joy of Heart"
June 24, 2020
Isaiah 65-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Dear one, are you in need of joy of heart today? Read on to find how to obtain it.

When God calls you, will you answer His call?
There is such a contrast here in verses 11-20 between those who answered God and those who did not (Judah and Israel).
First, shall we take a look at blessings He gives to those who answer God's call, who become His faithful servants?
They shall eat, drink, rejoice, and sing for joy of heart (goodness of heart).

Are you in need of joy of heart, Christian? It is found in obedience to what the Holy Spirit is calling us to do for kingdom work. The joy of the Lord Jesus is our strength to carry on.

What is the destiny of this group of believing servants of God? They will have a new name-Christian.

There is  a special promise of God for them: And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. (verse 24)

I have experienced this verse a few times. I was only able to say Jesus' name and not even get out a prayer request and He came to my aid immediately. How amazing is the grace and unfailing love of Jesus!



LET IT GROW

Then, those unbelievers and unfaithful ones who do not answer God's call, nor hear His voice, did evil in His eyes, and chose to do what did not delight Him, what would happen to them?
They shall be hungry, thirsty, ashamed, cry for sorrow of heart, and vexation of spirit (brokenness of spirit). Those unbelieving Jews were described as a curse unto God's chosen.

What is the destiny of this second group? God says the unbelievers will be slain.

Which group are you among, dear friend?

LET IT GO

Father, may we, who are called by Your name, Christian, be faithful to hear when You call us to do special kingdom work and surrender with a "yes."
Help us to believe in Your provisions as we serve You.
Will You fill us with joy of heart today?

Who or What Are We Serving?

O. T. #1718  Who or What Are We Serving?"
June 23, 2020
Isaiah 65

LET IT GLOW


The answer to Isaiah's  previous prayer is found in the last two chapters. God speaks of the Gentiles who have come to trust in His salvation through Jesus Christ. The unconditional election of the Gentiles is found during the New Testament church age. Paul quoted this first verse in Romans 10:20. Our gracious God chose us to be His children and offers salvation still to non-Jews.

Israel considered itself to be the only people of God, but the time could come when other nations that were Gentiles would seek Him. God's people today are those who accept Jesus as Savior and Lord, whether they are Jews or Gentiles. (Life Application Study Bible)

In our world situation, people are sincerely searching for God. So be prepared to share the gospel. As Christians, we can tell them how to have eternal life in heaven.

LET IT GROW

How does God describe the Jews?

• They directly disobeyed His laws when they worshiped and sacrificed to idols (Ex. 20:1-6).
• They consulted the dead and evil spirits (Lev. 19:31).
• They ate forbidden foods (Lev. 11).
• They considered themselves superior to others, holier than thou, so Jesus called the hypocrites (Matt. 23:13-36)

God said He would pay them back for their sins with His judgment. God knew the hearts and minds of the Jews during this time. Thus, He sent them into captivity in a foreign land, the Babylonians. Even the righteous ones had to suffer for the sins of the nation. Those were Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, and the three Hebrew boys.

Our lesson today is for us to leave judgment of other, as well as their punishment, to God.
If God gave us all what we deserve, He might wipe us out. but His mercy is great towards those who repent. He is ready to give us not what we deserve and not giving us what we do deserve. That's grace and mercy.

Take a look into our life-do we have anything more important than God and Jesus? If so, then it becomes an idol. What we love, and think about, we serve. Who or what are we serving?


LET IT GO
Lord Jesus, we need our minds transformed and renewed daily.
May Your Word penetrate us, changing our thoughts and actions.
May we bear fruit in what we say and do, for Your glory.

Filthy Rags Made Clean

O. T. #1717  "Filthy Rags Made Clean"
June 22, 2020
Isaiah 64-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

We learned last time that God works on behalf of those who wait for Him. He has something in the works that is going to be good for you and me, sweet friend. So WAIT on God to do it, whatever your it is.
What else can we expect?

• God will meet with those who rejoice and work righteousness and are faithful to Him;
• those that remember His ways and what God has done;
• Even though we sin, falling short of God's standards or missing the mark, there is continuance (eternity), for our God is gracious and merciful toward those believing in Jesus.

Direct exposure to the awesome character of God's judgment brings a realization of sinners' need of salvation (Acts 16:26-30). (MacArthur)

LET IT GROW

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf: and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (verse 6)

Sin makes us unclean so that we cannot approach God (Rom. 3:23) any more than a beggar in polluted garments could dine at a king's table. Our best efforts are still infected with sin. Our only hope, therefore, is faith in Jesus Christ, who can cleanse us and bring us into God's presence.
(Life Application Study Bible)

In comparison to God's infinite righteousness, our "good" conduct/works are but a polluted garment. We are unworthy to be in God's presence. We can be swept away like a leaf that has fallen from a tree and the wind blows it away, if He choses.
Filthy rags can be made clean with some soap and water and scrubbing. So can our filthy souls.

Nothing is impossible with God. (Luke 1:37)

But...
God loves us, formed us, and we are as clay that the Potter can form into whatever He desires. Are we pliable and submissive to His will?

In verses 10-12, Isaiah asks God to hear his prayer and restore a desolate land, Jerusalem and the Temple. Also, he is praying God will not judge them with all His strength and to the full extreme.


LET IT GO

Righteous Father, please cleanse our souls and our nation of filthy sin. Will You change and wash our sinful hearts clean with the blood of Jesus Christ, our Living Lord? Please forgive us of our sins.
Let Your loving kindness be upon us.
Remember Your children, for we will perish without Your mercy. We need Your help.
Will You stop this deadly virus and set us free from its effects?
Yours is the victory, glory, and honor for ever and ever.
  

Waiting for the Wow

O. T. #1716  "Waiting for the Wow"
June 19. 2020
Isaiah 64
For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Him.
 (verse 4)

LET IT GLOW

Did you know we are almost finished studying this book? Thank you special friends for faithfully continuing with me. It has been a rather difficult one to keep on studying. Isaiah knew judgment and captivity was coming to his people if they did not repent of their idolatry and turn back to worshiping God.
Isaiah is pleading with God to show His mighty power as He did previously. Since we know that God can do anything He wants to do because He is all-powerful, Isaiah seems to be calling upon His strength.
In the first three verses, Isaiah recognizes God power to:

• separate or split the clouds and come down;
• melt mountains at His presence due to the judgment fire of God; (verse 1)
• make known Jesus' name to their adversaries;
• cause nations to tremble at His presence; (verse 2)
• do terrible (to fear or hold in honor; reverence) things; (verse 3)

We can recall Moses' experiences and the mighty acts of God at the burning bush that was not burnt up and at Mt. Sinai when there was a thunderstorm, smoke, an earthquake and a trumpet voice. The people trembled (Exodus 19). Do we remember a time when God mightily came through in our past? So many things He has done for us, provided, and given in our times of need. Those are times stamped on our mind and heart. He can do it again.

LET IT GROW

Now read our key verse above.  Are you in a waiting mode in your life, spiritually looking to see where God is working and wants us to join Him, like we are? Be encouraged, dear one, God has things prepared for us believers.

God is waiting for us to wait for Him. (Kay Arthur)

Nothing can rob you of your inheritance of unimaginable riches and well-being. (Sarah Young)

God Himself knew what He had in store for believers, but none knew besides Him. (Matthew Henry)

The idea of hearing, perceiving, and seeing God refers to "recognizing His existence through the perception of His works." (Delitzsch)

God works on behalf of those that waiteth (to adhere to; await long; tarry; wait) 

Paul said in 1 Corinthians 2:9-10,  But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

I always thought this was referring to heaven, but Tony Evans says otherwise:

This is not a reference to heaven but to God's work in the life of the believer. It indicates that God can help believers understand things that they cannot learn through natural means. How does He do this? He reveals these things to us by the Spirit. This is called illumination. Though God has revealed to us His inspired, written Word, believers need illumination to give us understanding. Illumination does not involve new revelation; rather, it involves God giving a believer understanding of the meaning and application of Scripture in the midst of his own experiences.

So the Word of God and Holy Spirit work in our mind to supernaturally learn, understand, and apply the things of God, making it personal.

As we wait, are we reading the Word and praying for wisdom for it in our life?
Would you share with us what God is doing in your life now?
A wow moment is coming.

LET IT GO

Dear God, break though our impatience as we wait for Your direction.
Show us the right steps in the right direction for each of our lives.
Open the right doors and give us faith to walk through them.
Work out the details for us.
Your presence is needed now.

A Child and Heir

O. T.  #1715  "A Child and Heir"
June 18, 2020
Isaiah 63-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

When my mother passed away, ten years after my dad, we, their children, had their will telling us how their property was to be distributed. Did you know that you are a child and an heir of God's? Do you know what is yours?

After having extolled God's goodness (v.7-9) and rehearsed God's past faithfulness to Israel for the sake of His glory (v.11-13), the prophet offered a prayer of repentance by the nation in its desolate condition. (MacArthur)

To whom is Isaiah pleading in this prayer found in verses 15-19?
It is God who:

• dwells in a holy, glorious home in heaven; (verse 15)
• has zeal and strength that never diminishes;
• expresses mercy, love, concern, and sympathy;
• is our Father; (verse 16)
• is  LORD (Jehovah; Self-Existent or Eternal);
• is our Redeemer [to be the next of kin (to buy back a relative's property); ransom];
• has a name of Everlasting (eternal, forever, without end);

Our Father and Israel's Father is our One-and-only Redeemer. Jesus fulfilled the requirement for purchasing our salvation by shedding His blood on the cross, a perfect sacrifice.

Paul told the church at Roman (8:15-17), For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And of children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together.

When Jesus Christ becomes our Savior, then we become a child of God. Then we can cry unto our Heavenly Father in prayer and He hears us.

Since we have several visitors to this blog, I try to keep witnessing for our Savior. Friend, have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Savior, Redeemer?

LET IT GROW

Now, let's take a peek at Isaiah's prayer for mercy and pardon:

• First, he appeals for God to hear him from heaven.
• He asks for new mercies such as He had shown toward Israel in the past;
• Even though Abraham and Jacob (Israel) were their patriarchs, they can't help.
• He questions why God allowed His nation to wander in sin and disobedience.
• His request is for His servants to return in repentance to Him.
• Your sanctuary Temple is going to be destroyed (in 63BC by Babylon and 70AD by the Romans).
• We are Thine, so rule over us again; He never ruled over Israel's enemies.

On behalf of the faithful remnant, Isaiah asks God for two favors: to show mercy and compassion toward them and to punish their enemies. Before making these requests, Isaiah recited the Lord's past favors, reminding Him of His compassion in former days. (Life Application Study Bible)

Does it sometimes seem as though we never belonged to God? As if we had never been known as God's child? We are God's beloved child, chosen before the foundation of the world. Each of our paths are designed uniquely for us. Jesus is our hope and future, so stay close to Him. God's got this.

Galatians 4:6 says, And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out "Abba, Father!"

Are we crying out to Him? Are we repenting of our sins? Are we following the wrong path in disobedience? We need to correct it.

LET IT GO

You are a Good, Good Father; perfect in all of Your ways. That's who Your are.
Your are here in every moment, perfect in all Your ways.
Take courage my heart; hold onto God; He's never failed yet.
Hold on, He's in the waiting.

Walking Through Deep Waters

O. T. #1714  "Walking Through Deep Waters"
June 17, 2020
Isaiah 63-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Here is a devotional we can use today from Charles Swindoll:

If your niche is encouraging, please don't stop. If it is embracing, demonstrating warmth, compassion, and mercy for goodness' sake, keep it up. Don't quit, whatever you do. I think many Christians are dying on the vine for lack of encouragement from other believers. It's a delightful thing to receive a good word just at your time of need.

God...will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.  (Hebrews 6:10)

Why were the people of Israel in such a mess in Babylon? Verse 10 tells us because they rebelled (disobey) and vexed (to pain or grieve) the Holy Spirit of God. So God became their enemy and fought against them.

Jehovah extended His mercy to His people; He sent His angel (Christ) to deliver them, but they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit (Is. 61:1) and Jehovah became their enemy. This was accomplished in Israel's history by allowing heathen nations to conquer and plunder Israel. (Falwell)

What good can come from this? Read verses 11-14. The people recalled the days of old with Moses leading them to cross the Read Sea in deliverance from slavery in Egypt. He surely saw their affliction and heard their cry, in Exodus 3:7-8. Those faithful Israelites knew their history.

God led them through the deep waters of the Red Sea, divided it so they could cross over toward the Promised Land. Israel was led by Moses' hand who in turn was led by the hand of God.
What was this compared to?

• Like a horse in the wilderness, the people were able to walk with all obstacles cleared from their path.
• It was like cattle who leave the barren, cold mountains to go down into the valley where they find abundant pastureland.  
• Israel was able to enter the land of Canaan where God gave them rest.
• God gained a magnificent reputation, a glorious name, by doing this.

May we continue to share the good deeds of our Great God, who shows us loving kindness and mercy.
Are you walking through deep waters today, difficult times and storms of life, dear friend? God delivered His children through their deep waters, and He can do it again in your life. There is dry ground ahead, so keep walking by faith, trusting Him.
I have to remind myself of this. Just yesterday, God brought me through the deep waters of asthma. I do not take breath of life for granted. I thank Him everyday.

LET IT GROW

Back in Isaiah 43:2, God promised to be with us.
You know what, it is when we are spiritually in the fire, knocked down by swift rivers, and treading in deep waters, that we turn to God and experience Him in a new way. Will we pray? Will we give glory to the name of Jesus? Will we find rest in Him during this difficult time? Will we remain faithful? Will you continue to encourage others?

LET IT GO

When you feel like giving up and giving in, God's love is the reason to not.
His love is the reason. He is the peace. His love is the reason to keep on believing.
Every minute He is with us. He is our hope.

May we rise together.
It's all God's children singing, "Glory, glory, He reigns."
I love those new songs on my radio. Hit that refresh button through prayer today.

Carried and Cared For Today

O. T. #1713  "Carried and Cared For Today"
June 16, 2020
Isaiah 63-Part 2
In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them: in His love and in His pity He redeemed them; and He bare them, and carried them all the days of old. (verse 9)

LET IT GLOW

Do you need to be carried and cared for today during this crazy time in our world? The loving kindnesses of our Heavenly Father can carry you through this, for He cares for you. Lay your burdens down at the feet of Jesus. He can handle them better than we can.

Is Jesus coming as your Savior or enemy? We learned about the difference in the previous first six verses.
Now, in verses 7-9, the prophet Isaiah is mentioning, speaking, celebrating which is centered around
what three words stand out here describing God? Notice that they are plural and indicate an abundance.

1. The lovingkindnesses (checed, Kheh'sed) which means  favor, good deed, merciful kindness of the LORD; God's grace is extended in His kindness toward His people. (verse 7)
2. The great goodness refers to good, in the wildest sense; gladness; joy.
3. His mercies, refers to compassion; tender love; Delitzsch describes it as His deepest, sympathizing tenderness.  

Isaiah was speaking about God bestowing those upon Israel; Matthew Henry says it is referring to the church, but we can apply them to us.
How has God shown His favor, goodness, and mercies upon you?
As for my family, God keeps providing for our needs, has blessed our business beyond our wildest dreams, and is so merciful to me a sinner. I owe my all to You, Jesus.

God's dealings with His sinful people is rooted in His grace, His deepest sympathy and His inherent goodness. (Matthew Henry)

LET IT GROW

As children of God, His very own, how are we to respond to these?

• Praise the LORD for His loving kindnesses, mercies, and great goodness toward us.(verse 7)
• We do not lie, but obey His laws; we do not betray Him as our Savior in our life.
• In our suffering, we declare that Jesus suffered on the cross for us, as well as His rescuing us.
• We recognize that in His love and pity He redeems us. (verse 9)
• He lifts us up and carries us through all our years, just as He did Israel.

As a mother carefully carried and cares for her children, so the Lord carried and cares for His people. This redemption is rooted in His love and His shemlah (His forgiving gentleness) toward His people.
(Falwell)

Read Psalm 103.

LET IT GO

Help us share the many ways You have shown us loving kindnesses, mercies, and great goodness toward others.
We thank You and praise You for all you do for us everyday.
Savior and Redeemer, how Great You are!
Bless the Lord, o my soul, and all that is within me, praise His holy name!

He's Got This

O. T. #1712  "He's Got This"
June 15, 2020
Isaiah 63

LET IT GLOW

How are you holding up through this pandemic, friend? I'm still walking on down this country road with faith in Jesus. I know it is difficult, so hang onto Him. He's got this.

When Israel is surrounded by hostile enemies desiring her extinction, how could she rise to glory and prominence? The answer is Jesus Christ who comes back to earth:

• He speaks righteousness and is mighty to save, deliver;
• He comes in anger and fury to destroy those who opposed His Beloved Israel'
• He first came to be the Savior, crushed as grapes going through the winepress and alone;
• HIs judgment will be so severe that Jesus' garments will be stained with blood of the people (Rev. 19:13); ultimately, Satan and his demons will be destroyed;
• The time will be a specific day and year of His judgment according to the purposes and plans of God; it will also be the time of His redeemed.

Jesus will victorious in the final war. That final battle at Armageddon will be tremendous.
We saw this place, called the Valley of Jezereel, which means seed of God in Hebrew. It is a huge valley between tall hills or mountains. Right now, it is a fertile agricultural field. Historically, it was the place where Gideaon defeated the Midianites and King Saul was later defeated by the Philistines.
Armageddon means the end of the world in Hebrew, which comes from the Hebrew words, Har Mediddo, Mt. Megiddo. Its size is roughly 380 square kilometers. It is astounding to think of so much blood shed that it will be as high as the horses bridles there.

Whose side are we on, dear one? Jesus is in control of those last days. Are you one of His children? I believe the church and believers will be raptured out of here before this happens.

LET IT GROW

Verse 5 tells us that there was no one to help uphold justice and righteousness, so Jesus Christ brought salvation. Of course, there are many who believe in Him as Savior and Messiah and there are those who reject Him. Do you believe in Jesus as the perfect Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, as John proclaimed?
Friend, do not wait or put off coming to Jesus, for when He comes in the clouds, it will be too late. Simply confess your sins to Him and ask forgiveness from Jesus and become your Savior. He will.

For us who have already done so, we have our hope in Him. He's got this. Keep trusting Him with all things.

LET IT GO
Lord bless you and keep you; make His face shine upon you; be gracious to you and give you peace.

Prepare The Way

O. T. #1711  "Prepare The Way"
June 12, 2020
Isaiah 62-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Look at these promises God has made in verses 8-9:

• Strangers will no longer ravish and plunder the land of Israel. He swore this by His right hand and strong arm. He will never again hand them over to their enemies.
• They will raise the corn and get to eat it, praising the Lord, and give a drink offering, which the priests could have.

God's mercy is giving plenty, and peace to enjoy it-the earth yields her increase, there are hands to be employed in gathering it in, and they are not taken off by plague and sickness, or employed in war. Strangers and enemies will not come and gather it for themselves or take it from them when it is gathered. Israel will have a heart to honor God with it. They enjoy this mercy.
We must gather what God gives, with care and industry; we must eat it freely and cheerfully, not bury the gifts of God's bounty, but make use of them. Bless the Lord and give Him thanks for the bounty to us; serve Him with our abundance, use it in works of piety and charity.
God confirms it by an oath, that His people, who trust in Him and His Word, may have strong consolation (Heb. 6:17-20). [Resource: Matthew Henry's Commentary on Isaiah]

Are we trusting in our own strength and abilities or upon God's?


LET IT GROW

Read verses 10-12. What was Israel instructed to do on their journey back home?

• Leave the gates of the heathen cities to prepare for their journey;
• throw up the road or prepare the highway for those returning;
• smooth out the stones, boulders for the road;
• lift up a standard, banner, above the nations.
• Their salvation was coming, Jesus Christ.
• In the millennium reign, Israel will be called The Holy People, The People Redeemed by the Lord.
• Jerusalem will be known as The Desirable Place and The City No Longer Forsaken. 

Are we preparing others for the return of Jesus? Have we removed the things that hinder our witness?
Are we holding up the standard for life-the Word of God?
Are you a holy person that is redeemed by the blood of Jesus?

LET IT GO

Prepare our hearts for Your return, Jesus.
This is not the end, but the beginning of eternity.
You will change everything when You come back, Jesus.
We are trusting in You, Savior.

A Crown

O. T. #1710  "A Crown"
June 11, 2020
Isaiah 62-Part 2
Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. (verse 3)

LET IT GLOW

Israel's new name will reflect their new favored status. Jerusalem will become a lighthouse for the world. The Lord's delight will be in her.

In our key verse, we see that Israel will be a crown of glory and a diadem, describing them as the headdress of the high priest. These are in the hand of God, not on His head. God will display Zion in all of her glory, which is ultimately a manifestation of His redeeming power. Israel will be a nation of kings and priests. Their God shall rejoice over them as He fulfills His covenant relationship on their behalf.
[Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

Can we also apply this to us as a Christian and as the church of God? Will we rejoice being the bride of Christ? Are we one in whom our God delights? Is our life pleasing to Him?


LET IT GROW

Now look at verse 6. What is God saying to us and Israel?

• He will post watchmen (overseers) for further protection of His people. These could be spiritual watchmen or angels, but likely not military ones.
• Probably they are intercessors who pray for the final peace of Jerusalem, who will pray day and night.
• These prayer warriors will give our God no rest until He makes Jerusalem a praise on the earth and His promise is fulfilled. (verse 7)

Paul tells us to pray constantly (1 Thessalonians 5:17) Do we wear God out with our prayers? Jesus agreed and told His disciples to pray always and not give up. (Luke 18:1)

Are we prayer warriors interceding for people we love, for Israel, and for America?
One day we will lay our crowns at the feet of Jesus our King.

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are sovereignly controlling earth and in heaven.
Please take control of our lives.
To You be the glory forever!

A New Name

O. T. #1709  "A New Name"
June 10, 2020
Isaiah 62

LET IT GLOW

Are you ready for a new change in your life right now? Who isn't? We talk about getting back to the normal life we had before the pandemic, but I hope it will be a better life.  I desire this to be a time in our lives that has changed our perspective on life, our way of dealing with people, our attitude toward our life as it is. I pray it has changed us into a more loving people, a stronger-in-faith people, a more compassionate people, and a more-praying-to-God people.

Tony Evans has this to say about this chapter, "This chapter is one of the crown jewels of prophecy in terms of the glorious future awaiting Israel when Jesus Christ returns and establishes His kingdom."

• In that bright future, Israel's righteousness will shine like a bright light and her salvation, like a flaming torch. (verse 1) 
• God will also give His chosen nation a new name. (verse 2)
• God Himself will announce this new name; therefore, we can trust that what it proclaims will certainly happen.
• In Isaiah's day, God called Israel Deserted, (Forsaken) and Desolate; (verse 4)
• Their name will be changed to Hephzibah (My delight is in her) and  land of Beulah (married) and the Lord's Bride. (verses 4 and 5)
• The Holy People, If and The Redeemed of the LORD, as well as Sought Out are other names by which Israel will be called. (verse 12)

The people will rejoice in what God has done (61:10) and God will rejoice with the people as He fulfills His covenant relationship on their behalf (verse 5). (Falwell)

LET IT GROW

Since Israel will be called by a new name, it indicates a new change. Their hearts will love God instead of idols. Gentiles will see the change. They will have righteousness and salvation.
Just as a Christian is a new creation in Christ so also Israel will experience a radical change from that which has been normal previously.

Have you experienced a change of heart? Have you repented of your sins and asked Jesus to be your Savior and Lord? When you do, your new name will be "Christian."
Are our actions and words demonstrating that we have had a changed name? If others are asked, would they say they recognize us as a Christian? Something to think about.

LET IT GO
Jesus, make me into a beautiful person, as my name means.
Make my heart as beautiful as You have purposed.
May others recognize me as a Christian.
Thank You Jesus for another year in which to live.

My Wedding Dress

O. T. #1708  "My Wedding Dress"
June 9, 2020
Isaiah 61-Part 4
I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.
(verse 10)

LET IT GLOW

Ladies, did you as a bride wear a special wedding dress-garment? Did you adorn yourself with jewels?
I recall spending a week with my sister in the summer before our wedding looking for that one dress in Houston. It had crocheting on the upper part and netting for the flowing part and long sleeves. I didn't want a train, for it was too fancy for this country gal.  My husband wore a brown suit that he specially bought. The only jewelry I wore was a simple necklace he gave to me, shaped like a heart. We were simple folks with hearts filled with the joy of love. (Although, our parents were not excited for us, since I was only 18 and he was 19.) But that love has lasted almost 48 years. We are looking for the golden anniversary to celebrate soon.

Read our key verse above. Here are some questions dealing with it:

• Are we greatly rejoicing in the LORD Jesus today?
• Is our soul joyful in our God?
• Is our soul clothed with the garments of salvation that Jesus has provided?
• Are we covered with a robe of righteousness from Him?

The English translation of I will greatly rejoice, is rejoicing I will rejoice.
After enumerating the many blessings of God upon His people, the chapter concludes with an exuberant and joyous song of praise to Jehovah. It is an inner joy that comes from the soul. (Falwell)

If you cannot rejoice today, perhaps you do not know Jesus as your Savior, friend. Simply ask Him to forgive your sins, come into your heart, and be your Savior.
If you already have done so, then are you rejoicing in Jesus?

LET IT GROW

What do we read in the last part of verse 11? So the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.

Is the joy of the Lord your strength? Do we thank Him for the little things that He provides?

LET IT GO

I greatly rejoice in You today, King Jesus!
Your grace is greater than all my sin.
Peace be still. Comfort and strengthen everyone who reads this.
Let faith rise up in us.

Live It and Give It

O. T. #1707  "Live It and Give It"
June 8, 2020
Isaiah 61-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

After the captivity was over for Israel, the ancient ruins were rebuilt. Those that returned to Jerusalem rebuilt the Temple, their homes and businesses, and the walls around the city. Their enemies became servants. The three men who led the return journey became governors-Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah.

In the new kingdom during the Millennial reign of King Jesus, Israel will be a nation of:

• Priests of the LORD; (Moses was promised that His people would become a kingdom of priests, in Exodus 19:6.) (verse 6)
• Ministers of our God;
• recipients of a double honor and everlasting joy; (verse 7)
• having an everlasting covenant; (Everyone will recognize Israel as the blessed people of God.) verse 8

We can see God's grace and mercy as He forgave and will forgive His chosen people for their idolatry and not acknowledging Jesus Christ as the Son of god and Messiah.

LET IT GROW

What about us Gentiles of non-Jewish blood? (Acts 13:34), since it was an essential event in fulfilling this promise made to David that his seed would be ruler over Israel in an everlasting kingdom. If Christ had not fully satisfied God by His atoning death, He would not have risen; if He had not risen from the dead, He could not eventually sit on David's earthly throne. But He did rise and will fulfill the kingly role. The whole world will come to Jesus as the great King. (MacArthur)

Under the new covenant, all believers are priests of the Lord (1Peter 2:5) reading God's Word and seeking to understand it, confessing their sins directly to God, and ministering to others. (Life Application Study Bible)

Each one of us can be ministers of God when we obey, do justly, and love mercy; when we pray, and give to orphans and widows; when we do so cheerfully, with humility, and live godly and uprightly before God. We must be a grateful people who praise God with our lips and our heart.

Are we living and ministering to others and our God?

LET IT GO
Use us to show Your love to others, Jesus.
Help us to not only speak the Truth, but also live it.
Live it and Give it.

You Can Be a Strong Oak

O. T. #1706  "You Can Be a Strong Oak"
June 5, 2020
Isaiah 61-Part 2
To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them, beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He might be glorified.  (verse 3)

LET IT GLOW


Christ was appointed to be hope and encouragement to those who come to Him by faith. His life mission was to show God's love for sinners and  ultimately give His life as a perfect sacrifice for people who would  believer in Him as Savior and Messiah.

What else was Jesus appointed to do?
He exchanges:

• beauty for ashes of repentance; in times of great mourning people would cover themselves with ashes for a sign of their condition. Only Jesus can change hearts.
• the oil of joy for mourning; instead of sorrow there will be joy in the heart that comes to Jesus.
• the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; as the burden of sin is lifted when we confess it, we praise Jesus for renewal.

Are you weighted down with the burden of sin, perhaps a secret sin? Just confess it to Jesus and let Him make your life beautiful, joyful, and praise to Him.

LET IT GROW

We have many oak trees on our farm. They have stood tall and strong against high winds that have come to us. In the latter part of this verse, Jesus refers us Christians as trees of righteousness. He plants us in churches to bring forth spiritual fruit and grace. We need each other as encouragers when the winds of life blow us here and there.

The oak tree represents greatness, strength, and a tree capable of enduring all of the adverse elements of nature. God's righteousness is that which makes His people as oak trees. (Falwell)

All of this is so God is glorified. Is our life glorifying Him?

LET IT GO
Continue to pray for each other during this pandemic. God knows what we are going through. Keep a strong faith so we glorify Him.

Are You in Need Today?

O. T. #1705  "Are You in Need Today?"
June 4, 2020
Isaiah 61
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the LORD hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hat sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.  (verse 1)

LET IT GLOW

Some that He was just another ordinary man; some thought He was a good teacher; some thought He was a blasphemer claiming to be the Messiah. Jesus set the record straight recorded in Luke 4:17-21. He read this passage in the Jewish synagogue, the words Isaiah wrote over 600 years earlier. Jesus made it clear that He fulfilled that prophecy.
Jesus was a Jew, one of them. Nazareth was His hometown and He was known as the local carpenter's son (Luke 4:21-22). The appearance of Jesus was not impressive. He wasn't the Messiah they expected, having might and power to conquer the Roman government. The Jews would have thrown Him over a cliff had He not passed through the midst of them.
What made Jesus different? He was born of a virgin Mary, as well as being conceived by the Holy Spirit of God.

Another thing, Jesus had the Spirit of the Lord God upon Him. did you know that the Hebrew word, Messiah and the Greek word Christ mean Anointed One? Jesus was anointed by God the Father to redeem His world and reign over His kingdom. Christ the Messiah was set apart for a special task-to be the Savior and Redeemer and Messiah.

What was Christ anointed (to consecrate; to be filled; be full of) with the Holy Spirit, in verses 1 and 2, to do what?

• to preach (to announce (glad news); bear, bring, carry, preach, tell) good tidings unto the meek (depressed; in mind-gentle or circumstances-needy; lowly; poor);
• sent to bind (to wrap firmly, compress; to stop; to rule) up the brokenhearted (to burst; break-down, off, in pieces; crush; hurt;
• to proclaim (to call out to-address by name; pronounce; say; publish) liberty to the captives (prisoner; that was taken; take away);
• open the prison (jail-delivery)prison to them that are bound(to yoke or hitch; to fasten; put in bonds).

Are you depressed or needy or poor? Jesus is the good news you need.
Are you brokenhearted, crushed by another's words or actions? Jesus will wrap you up in His unconditional love.
Are you held captive by a sin, a lifestyle, or someone? Jesus can set you free.
Does your mind need to be freed from that which has you bound up in your mind?
We can be set free from sin through the salvation Jesus has provided. Will you ask Him to be your Savior and forgive you of your sins, if you have not done so before?


LET IT GROW

In verse 2 Jesus says that He was anointed To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn.

In Luke 4:18-19, as Jesus read Isaiah 61:1 and part of verse 2 in the synagogue, He stopped after "to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD."  Rolling up the scroll, He said that day this Scripture was fulfilled. It was the year that God provided salvation to all who would believe in Him. His first coming provided salvation, but His second coming will bring vengeance, judgment upon His enemies and restore Israel to a place of glory. We are under God's favor, yet His wrath is coming. Are we ready?

I almost passed over the last phrase. Jesus came to comfort all that mourn. When we seek Jesus and not the world, we will find comfort. Are we mournful over our sins and failures? The Holy Spirit can change our sorrow into songs of praise.

LET IT GO



Everything I've needed, Lord Jesus, You've always been-my Savior, Sustainer, when I'm at my end; Healer, Redeemer. Everything I've needed Lord, You've always been. Thank You, Jesus!

Let go of the worries and cares and receive Peace.
Let go, relax, be still, and know that He is God.

It's Your breath in our lungs so we pour out our praise to You, Holy God.

A New Jerusalem is Coming!

O. T. #1704  "A New Jerusalem is Coming!"
June 3, 2020
Isaiah 60-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

In verses 19-22, Isaiah is looking beyond the millennial kingdom and sees a view of the New Jerusalem, Celestial City, as in Revelation 21 and 22.
How does he describe it?

• There will not be anymore the sun and moon for light. The brightness of the glory of the Lord will fill supply it. (verse 19)
• God will be an everlasting light. He says this twice. He won't change nor diminish.
• The people will be righteous, which is imputed by faith in Jesus. (verse 21)
• Their inheritance of the land is to be permanent.
• They will receive care and nourishment from God Himself.
• A few humble children of faith will increase into an expansion of joyous fellowship of many.(verse 22)

[Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

We are reassured that the Sovereign Jehovah will bring this to pass;it will be fulfilled rapidly.
The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 12 caves  by Bedouin shepherds between 1946 and 1956. All of the OT books were found except for Esther and Nehemiah.
Israel has a museum located there. We were able to see the writings of Isaiah, which were in Hebrew, preserved there. Monks had written them and hid them in the caves so the Roman army would not destroy them. How marvelous our God is! Today, we are able to read what Isaiah dictated from God so long before this.

Let us keep the faith, dear one. The best is yet to come for us. How beautiful heaven must be! Is your reservation made?

LET IT GROW



In his book, Great Days with the Great Lives, Charles Swindoll says some appropriate things for us in our time that might just help us:

When the day of reckoning arrives, God is always fair. He blesses those who have walked with Him. He forgives, restores, rewards, and heals. God doesn't miss a thing. Have you been abused, abandoned, treated unfairly, ripped off, neglected, misrepresented? God doesn't forget. He just doesn't adjust His plan to our timetable. His Accounts Settlement desk doesn't operate on a nine-to-five schedule. He doesn't handle our cases when we want them handled. He has a perfect plan. His plan is unfolding. God's arrangement of things is not a frustrated plan. He knows exactly what He's going to do and when He's going to do it. He didn't miss anything in Job's life and He hasn't missed anything in your life either.

I hope that is helpful to you like it is to me.
When the going gets tough, may our faith in Jesus get stronger. He never stops fighting for you and me. One day, He will make all things right. In the meantime, trust His timing. Continue to forgive and love in spite of....

LET IT GO

I have carefully mapped out every inch of your journey through this day, even though much of it may feel haphazard. I never leave your side. Let the Holy Spirit guide you step by step, protecting you from unnecessary trials and equipping you to get through whatever must be endured. As you trudge through the sludge of this fallen world, keep your mind in heavenly places with Me. Thus the Light of My Presence shines on you, giving you Peace and Joy that circumstance cannot touch.

Jesus Calling, a devotional book by Sarah Young.

A Glorious God

O. T. #1703  "A Glorious God"
June 2, 2020
Isaiah 60-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

If you have read this entire chapter, you will find one word, and its forms, that permeate it.

Glory is found in verses 1,2, and 13; it means splendor; honor. The first two are in reference to the glory of the LORD. His splendor will shine upon Jerusalem and will be seen there.

Glory, found in verses 7 and 19, mean honor; majesty; beauty. The first one is in reference to the House of His Glory, while the second one describes the New Jerusalem, Celestrial city, having God as its glory, an Everlasting Light.

Glorify, in verse 7, the second appearance, refers to gleam; embellish; beautify.

Glorified, which is in verses 9 and 21, means the same as the previous word.

In Isaiah 42:8 and 48:11,  God says that He will not share His glory with another.

I have come to realize that God deserves and requires glory from us. He will get it one way or another. If it takes humbling us through harsh measures, He can. However, love in our heart will give our God and Savior honor and recognition as our Majesty King automatically.

Is what we say and do glorifying our God? What about our decisions and thoughts? Do we thank and praise Him enough? Or are we seeking glory for our self? Is He the One True Living God that we worship?


LET IT GROW

Some consider this chapter refers to the rebuilding of Jerusalem after the 70 year captivity. Others, including me, think it is speaking of the reign of Christ during the millennial kingdom, thousand years. If the latter is correct, how is this time described?

• The glory of the Lord will rise to dispel spiritual darkness for Israel.
• People will be attracted to the Light, Jesus Christ, and will come to Jerusalem to worship Him-Gentiles, kings of nations, sons and daughters of Israel, and strangers.
• Gifts of material wealth will be brought with them, silver and gold, then given.
• The gates of the city will be continually left open, for peace and joyous fellowship, plus worship of King Jesus will exist there.
• Hatred, despising, ill intent, plus jealousy, ignorance and being forsaken will not exist toward Israel.

Having visited Jerusalem, I realize that the golden dome, which sits over the place of the Holy of Holies in the Temple of God, will have to be destroyed because of the false worship of the Islamic religion. Also, the Eastern Gate, that is currently cemented shut, will have to be opened, for Jesus will enter through it. Of course, nothing is too difficult for our God. What Sovereign Jehovah has planned will come to pass, one day.

Wow! What a time to live and observe this!

LET IT GO
God, You are amazing and marvelous, all-powerful and wise, as well as indescribable and uncontainable.
You have it all planned so we trust in You.
Jesus, reign as King of our hearts today.
We give You glory, honor, and praise.

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.