Day 205

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The King is Coming!

Scripture

July 23—Isaiah 31-35: Coming Calamity and King

Observation

Deliverance. Restored prosperity. Lasting peace. They are all part of Isaiah's joyous prophecy concerning Israel's future. Though the prophetic horizon is dark with the foreboding presence of Assyrian troops, there is also a future King coming—a King whose rule and righteousness will be worldwide. Thus Isaiah urges his countrymen to put their confidence in God, not circumstances, as they await their promised redemption when "the ransomed of the Lord will go home along that road to Zion, singing the songs of everlasting joy" (35:10).

Application

An optimist is one who makes the best of it when he gets the worst of it; a pessimist is one who looks both ways before crossing a one-way street! And a realist is one who lets God show him which end of the telescope to look through when studying his circumstances. Which kind of person are you?

It's difficult to be optimistic when you know that "the Lord is enraged against the nations; his fury is against their armies. He will utterly destroy them and deliver them to slaughter" (34:2). And yet, it's equally difficult to be pessimistic when you know that "the Lord is our Judge, our Lawgiver, and our King; he will care for us and save us" (33:22). So how should you respond? In humble, realistic confidence, knowing that "quietness and confidence will reign forever more" (32:17). Quietness and confidence—two words God wants to be true of your daily experience with him in spite of the complexities of today's life.

Use each of those terms to complete this sentence: "Because I know the King is coming, today I'll exchange my pessimism for...!"

Prayer

Lord, thank you that we may ask for anything in your name and you will do it. What a path to living a peaceful life while we navigate through this thing called life. Help us to clear the ground we travel with your Word and sow it with righteousness according to your Word of which peace is the fruit. In Jesus name we pray! Amen!

Trust God for Peace!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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