Friday-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 provide salvation 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 antiserum for the darkness which is light! The light would come as a result of the King coming! 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 to His human creation yet would be the divine ruler. God is powerful 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 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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