Living in our Own Understanding

Isaiah was a prophet in the Old Testament who told it like it was. God often used prophets to deliver messages to his people. The messages were often warnings that if the people didn’t change their ways, there would be undesirable consequences. So, you might imagine that the prophets were not very well liked. I imagine they were treated similarly to those tattle-tales we all knew in school, the ones who reminded everyone of the rules and told the teacher when someone wasn’t following them.

Some tattle-tales might be jealous or have a liking to get others into trouble. But the prophets in the Bible were God’s spokespersons. Their messages were from God, who spoke to the people in order to save them from hardship and destruction.

In short, Isaiah’s job was to speak of God’s love. Now the message may not have sounded very loving. There were a lot of warnings and promises of punishment if there was no repentance. But there were also lots of assurances that if the people walked according to God’s ways and stayed in communion with him, they would enjoy God’s blessings.

In Isaiah 30, God tells the people through Isaiah that if they will relax, trust in him and keep from panicking when their enemies begin to attack, he will take care of them. He goes out of his way to show them mercy and compassion. He guides them in the right path if they will only be still and listen for his voice. The problem was, the Israelites were acting based on the circumstances, not on the faithfulness of God.

If only I would consistently follow God’s instructions, even when I feel threatened or anxious. You and I would all experience more peace in our lives if we would pause to hear the loving voice in our ear saying, “I’ve got you. Walk this way.” (Isaiah 30:21)

Prayer: Father, you are with me all the way. Help me learn to be still and hear your voice as I go.

*For Today: Read Isaiah 30 and make note of God’s description of an obstinate nation. Meditate on it in relation to your own thoughts and plans. Keep in mind that God loves you and wants the best for you.