Day 202

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Delight in the Lord!

Scripture

July 20—Isaiah 24-27: Jubilation for People of God

Observation

So far Isaiah's prophecies of judgment have resembled a "zoom lens" by focusing in on Babylon, Moab, Ethiopia, Jerusalem and other nations. But now as Isaiah concludes his section of "burdens," he takes a "wide angle" look at the prophetic horizon. And what he sees is judgment coming on a worldwide scale. One day the entire earth will reel and its inhabitants fall silent in terror and dismay. But while the world remains strangely silent, the redeemed break forth in joyous refrain, praising the God of their salvation—the God who alone can bring peace and prosperity.

Application

You could park your car in front of a fire hydrant. You could walk into your local bank and order the teller to fill a paper bag with money. You could claim fourteen dependents on your income tax return. You could do all this and more. But chances are you won't. Why? Because the law says, "You must not!" Violate that, and you stand in line for judgment.

Chapter 24 is a sobering reminder that God's righteous law has been violated by rebellious humanity, and a day of reckoning is coming. You can (and many people do) get away with murder today because of the inconsistent nature of human justice. But a day is coming when God will step in to judge the world in perfect righteousness—and when he does, it will not be pleasant for those living in rebellion to him—those who could have obeyed him, but chose not to.

What you read in chapter 24 may jar you but will it change you? God's Word was never intended to frighten you to death (John 3:18), but rather, to life! Will you respond in the fear of God today?

Prayer

Loving Father, in the midst of the hustle-and-bustle of this world, we become still before you. Let us blossom so as to fill the whole earth with the good fruit so the people of this world can rejoice in you. Refresh our soul, strengthen our faith and help us fight the good fight for your glory. In Jesus name! Amen!




© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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