My study of Isaiah is almost finished! I have a few chapters left to read and study/take notes on. I'm so thankful I had the YouVersion Bible app study guide to help me interpret this major prophet. The study I used is excellent at summarizing each chapter and applying it for us today.
CHAPTERS 56 and 57: Israel's eternal, sovereign, and holy God will heal, restore, guide, and comfort the hearts of the contrite. These chapters tell Israel of two future groups of people: ones who worship God, and the wicked ones. Idol-worshipping Jews would have no peace; God-fearing Gentiles would share in Israel's blessings. God will gather Jews and "foreigners to Israel" to Himself, specifically during Messiah's (Jesus') millennial reign. Anyone who repents from sin, choosing to love and keep His commands, will never be cut off from the Lord.
For us today: Our social, economic or educational status does not define us. Our race or church denomination doesn't either. God's view of humans is the most insightful. To Him the world is split: those who follow Christ, and those who follow Satan/reject Jesus. Let's view people the way God does: with or without Jesus. No other label matters.
CHAPTER 58: Fasting was meant to be a time to not pursue selfish things and instead to seek God's guidance. His people turned it into a ritual of no substance and yet wondered why God didn't answer their prayers. They obeyed outwardly but rebelled inwardly. This is evidence that religious rituals don't change hearts. God wanted them to be a blessing to others but that meant they'd have to give themselves completely to Him.
For us today: outward shows of Christianity are the result of a growing relationship with Jesus, not the cause. When we are walking with Christ, the reality of Him will be evident to the people around us in the form of mercy, graciousness, generosity, and sincerity. He wants to guide and strengthen us but first we have to give our selves to Him completely!
1 comment:
I have enjoyed reading your study and interpretation of this important book of scripture.
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