Monday-December 2
Today our reading is found in the writings of the Old
Testament prophet Isaiah. His writings were very familiar to Jesus in fact
Jesus quoted from Isaiah and Psalms more than any other Old Testament books.
Isaiah will speak of events that will come to Israel and
Judah because of God's wrath for their sin. The armies of Assyria and Babylon
will come in like a flood of water that you will be unable to stop! Destruction
will happen! You must understand you will not be able to save yourself God
alone is able to save you!
This is the theme of Isaiah. God alone saves! When the
people would see Isaiah, hear his voice or even speak his name they would be
reminded of the fact of that salvation comes from the Lord. His name proclaims
that fact for the name Isaiah means “The Salvation of Jehovah,” or “Jehovah
Saves”. Anytime you face fear whether it is fear of rejection or the fear of
the future understand God alone can help you! When you appear to be up against
overwhelming odds, don’t look for rescue or support anywhere else! Turn to God for
only He offers His people the hope of deliverance! He has been faithful to
offer deliverance to His people in every era!
The dependence upon our own human resources for direction will only
lead to more darkness. That had been the path of Ahaz who refused the
instruction from the God. He was an unfaithful king who took the nation deeper
into darkness.
The passage of Isaiah 9:1-6 that holds today's scripture reading speaks
of the anti serum for darkness which is light! The light would come through the
coming King! God's revelation of Himself as light would come through His Messiah
as joy would sweep over the people (2-3). Why would there be joy? Because Israel
will be liberated from the yoke of oppression and war (4-5). Who would bring
this? It would be the King of Kings! He would come as a child able to relate
with His human creation yet would be the divine ruler. God is strong enough to
overcome His enemies by becoming vulnerable, transparent, and humble.
The titles that are given in
verse 6 proclaim the deity of the child. He is wonderful and the greatest counselor
ever. Human wisdom will fail but His wisdom will always give success! The phrase
"mighty God' speaks of His strength! He can solve every problem! He can
carry you through every battle! He is the everlasting Father, that is a father
who will always be there (Matt 28:20) who will outlast your need of Himself! Remember
of His Kingdom there will be no end (7)! Your promise of everlasting life is if He
is your King! This is a birth announcement. An announce of the One who is
coming!
Take time to slowly read the scripture. Mediate on the words that describe
the coming One! Remember what He’s done for you in the past. Remember how
He’s demonstrated through the centuries that He loves you and will care for
you. Answer the question of how these words concern your individual
life! Pray that God will give you the light of revelation that no matter how
dark the night your God alone will help and save you!
Isaiah 9:6-7 (KJV 1900)
6For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is
given: And the government shall be upon his shoulder: And his name shall be
called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince
of Peace.
7Of the increase of his government and peace
there shall be no end, Upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, To order
it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice From henceforth even for
ever. The zeal of the Lord of
hosts will perform this.
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