Jeremiah 12 “Compassion For All”

“And it shall come to pass, after that I have plucked them out I will return, and have compassion on them, and will bring them again, every man to his heritage, and every man to his land. And it shall come to pass, if they will diligently learn the ways of my people, to swear by my name, saying, The LORD lives; as they taught my people to swear by Baal; then shall they be built in the midst of my people” ( vv.12-16).

This shows us that God is truly compassionate, longsuffering, and not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Even though Judah and Israel both broke their covenant with the LORD and followed after the gods of other nations, and will have hard times ahead for them for 70 years, God will still have compassion on them, and bring them back again, every man to his heritage, and every man to his land. Even those who led His people astray into worshiping other gods (Baal), IF they will learn the ways of His people and swear by His name.

This is great encouragement for all who hope and pray for their prodigals. If idol worshippers and corrupt Jewish leaders can be redeemed, so can everyone who calls on the name of the LORD.

The Truth: As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in Him will never be put to shame (Isaiah 28:16). For there is no difference between Jew or Gentile – the same LORD is LORD of all and richly blesses all who call upon Him, for, everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” (Romans 10:11-13)

Jeremiah 11 “The Broken Covenant”

“Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but everyone walked in the imagination of his evil heart; therefore I will bring upon them all the words of this covenant, which I commanded them to do, but which they have not done.” (v.8)

When God had graciously rescued Israel from the oppression of Egyptian slavery, He formed a binding covenant them. The terms were simple: “Obey me . . . and you will be my people, and I will be your God” (v.4). Unfortunately, God’s people refused to uphold their end of the covenant: “they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubbornness of their evil hearts” (v.8). They worshiped other gods; and the covenant was broken.

The people’s sin was so egregious that God said to Jeremiah, “I will bring a calamity on them which they will not escape; and though they cry out to Me, I will not listen to them” (v.11). O the consequences of disobedience and living in rebellion against God. Calamity would befall both Judah and Israel with no escape, and He will not hear their cries.

The same holds true for you and I. If we live in rebellion and rejection of God, He will surely bring us to destruction, no escape, and will not hear our cries. But, if we believe in His Son, Jesus Christ, and confess Him before men, He (Jesus) will confess us before His Father (God) in heaven. And then we will be His people, and He will be our God.

The Truth: Jesus said, "Everyone therefore who shall confess Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 10:32-33)

Jeremiah 10 “Idols vs. The True God”

“But the Lord is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King. At His wrath the earth will tremble, And the nations will not be able to endure His indignation.” Thus you (Jeremiah) shall say to them (Israel): “The gods that have not made the heavens and the earth shall perish from the earth and from under these heavens.” (vv.10-11)

Here in chapter 10 Jeremiah is reminding God’s people of the vast difference between Jehovah and manmade idols. One is living, everlasting, the One who made the heavens and the earth. While the others are molten images, a falsehood, there is no breath in them, and are made by man. They are vanity, and the work of errors: in the time of their visitation they shall perish (vv.14-16). But Jehovah, rather than being formed, is the One who has formed all things.

Therefore, call upon the LORD while He may be found. Remember your creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days have come, and the years draw near when you say, “I have no delight in them” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). For God’s Spirit will not always strive with man. "Behold the days are coming," says the LORD, that I will punish all those who are circumcised with the uncircumcised, Egypt, Judah, Edom, the people of Ammon, Moab, and all who are in the farthest corners, who dwell in the wilderness. For all these nations are uncircumcised, and the house of Israel are uncircumcised in the heart" (Jeremiah 9:25-26).

In other words, it doesn't matter if you are Jew or Gentile when it comes to God's wrath, His judgment. What does matter is your heart. To whom does your heart belong, the true and the living God or some idol? Salvation is found in God alone, "For there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

The Truth: “I am the LORD, and there is no other; there is no God but Me.” (Isaiah 45:5)

Jeremiah 9 “Glory in God”

“Thus says the LORD: ‘Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the LORD, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,’ says the LORD.” (vv.23-24)

Through Jeremiah we are told not to boast in our wisdom, strength, or riches. Through James we are told, “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you (us) up” (Jam. 4:10). Putting these thoughts together tells us, if we will learn and practice humility, then God will do all the promoting. And we can stand back and watch His handiwork that often goes beyond our greatest expectations. Giving glory to God and not ourselves shows that we understand that “every good and perfect is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights” (James 1:17), through His loving kindness and through His grace.

Therefore, may we glory in knowing Him, understanding His righteousness, His judgment, and His grace, His loving kindness, for the pride of life will bring destruction, and a haughty spirit a great fall” (Proverbs 16:18).

The Truth: “Rather, let him who boasts boast in the LORD. For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” (2 Corinthians 10:17)

Jeremiah 8 “Medication Can’t Heal The Soul”

“Is there no balm in Gilead, Is there no physician there? Why then is there no recovery for or the health of the daughter of my people?” (v.22)

Here in chapter 8 Jeremiah mourns for God’s people who continue to turn their backs on Him and do not repent. In our text he makes the point that no physical medicine is capable of bringing spiritual relief. Jeremiah used the same concept again concerning the Gentile Egyptians: “Go up to Gilead and take balm, O virgin, the daughter of Egypt: In vain shall you use many medicines; You shall not be cured” (Jeremiah 46:11).

Both Jew and Gentile were in need of spiritual healing, but no medication could heal their souls. Only through repentance and returning to God Himself as their physician could they find healing. Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Mark 2:17). The pivotal moment in our lives comes when we recognize that our sin has caused our sickness, and there is no physical medication we can take to heal our soul. The question is, will you continue in your sickness as did god's people or will you repent and accept His healing?

The Truth: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” (Acts 3:19)

Jeremiah 7 “Trusting in Deception”

“Behold, you are trusting in deceptive words to no avail. Will you steal, murder, and commit adultery and swear falsely, and offer sacrifices to Baal and walk after other gods that you have not known, then come and stand before Me in this house, which is called by My name, and say, ‘We are delivered!’—that you may do all these abominations? (vv.8-10)

We can’t have it both ways. We can’t transgress Monday-Saturday and come Sunday stand before God and say we are delivered. We can’t use the death of Jesus as a license to willfully sin, and then think He will pardon us, making His death of no effect. He will cast us out of His sight (v.15), for He sees through our deception.

However many years ago I did just that. Lived a selfish life, answered to no one, and God let me hit rock bottom. Thank God He never quit pursuing me, thank God the Spirit convicted me, thank God He forgave me, and thank God for His Son Jesus Christ who’s blood cleanses a man from all sin, even the sin of denial. No longer double minded, no longer my own, but bought and paid for by my savior Jesus Christ.

The Truth: “For by grace you are saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, for it is the gift of God; For ye are saved by grace, through faith; and this not of yourselves; it is God's gift: for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)

We Three Kings

The Christmas song, “We Three Kings” speaks to us of the “guiding light” which lead the Magi West from Persia to Jerusalem and eventually to Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus. In the gospel of Matthew (2:2) this light is referred to as, "His Star."

Not much is known about the exact identity of the Magi but they were most likely Gentiles of high position from a country northeast of Babylon, who were given a special revelation by God concerning the birth of, the King of the Jews. Some Bible scholars believe the revelation came through knowledge of Balaam’s prophecy concerning the “star” that would “come out of Jacob” (Num. 24:17). Others simply believe it came to them in the sky, as we are told in Matthew’s Gospel, “they had seen His star in the East.” (Matthew 2:2) Whatever the source, the Magi came to Jerusalem to worship the new-born King of the Jews and to pay Him tribute of Gold, Incense and Myrrh.

On their journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem “the star” they had seen in the East, reappeared and led them to the specific house in Bethlehem where they found the Child Jesus. (Matthew 2:9-11) This was truly a miracle, as Bethlehem is about 5 miles south of Jerusalem and “Stars” naturally travel from east to west across the heavens, not from north to south.

The response of the wise men upon finding Jesus was entirely appropriate, and their actions serve as a model of true discipleship. First they sought the Christ child (Matt. 2:2), and when they had found their way to Him, they rejoiced (Matt.2:10). Then, seeing the child they worshiped Him (Matt. 2:11), and offered him gifts that befit a king (Matt.2:11; cf. Pss 45:7-9; 72:15).

The response of Herod on the other hand was completely different. First, he did not seek to honor the baby Jesus, in fact He was not even aware of His birth under His very nose until the Magi inquired. Second, once he learned of it from the Magi, he tried to deceive them into returning too give him the exact location of Christ child in order that he might supposedly worship Him. But in his heart he had other plans. Two different people groups with two different reactions. The wise men (from the east, gentiles) worshiped Jesus. While Herod (part Jewish, ruler of the nation), sought to kill him.

This early division and the different reactions over the announcement of the birth of Christ, would mark His ministry His entire life. There would be no middle ground. Some would seek Him for life, while others would seek Him to take His life.

The same is true today for many people. Some are like Herod and reject Jesus, while others are like the Magi and see Him for who He is; the Messiah, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Savior of mankind, the "Light of the World." God's gift to all - if we will only receive it.

The Truth
“A Star shall rise out of Jacob. A Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” (Numbers 24:17)
“I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” (Rev.22:16)
Merry Christmas.

Jeremiah 6 “The Old Paths”

Thus says the LORD: "Stand in the ways and see, And ask for the old paths, where the good way is, And walk in it; Then you will find rest for your souls." But they said, 'We will not walk in it.' (v.16)

Jeremiah ministered just prior to the Babylonian exile (627–580 B.C.). Like many other prophets, he urged God’s people to return to “the old paths” (v.16). But they refused to do so! Even though God had sent previous prophets, the “watchmen” (v.17), the people persisted in their sin. And, rather than destroying all their false idols, the Israelites adopted many perverse pagan practices, even entering into dangerous foreign alliances rather than trusting God for their protection.

The consequences of their sin were far-reaching. Instead of being a witness to the nations, we find that the nations were called upon to testify against Israel in the courtroom of God’s justice and to hear His sentence against his people (v.18). This is indeed a sad day when God's people would chose to go their own way and not turn from their evil path, to walk the path of destruction rather than the way to truth and to light. And even when the prophet pleaded for them to return to the “good way,” they responded, “We will not walk in it.

LORD, teach us that the best road is the one we walk with You, and that the “old truth” of Your Word is ever new - even in today's morally degrading culture where good is consider evil and evil good.

The Truth: “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:115)

Jeremiah 5 “Fear The LORD”

“Hear this now, O foolish people without understanding, who have eyes and see not, and who have ears and hear not: Do you not fear Me? Says the LORD. Will you not tremble at My presence?” (vv.21-22)

At this point Israel had completely abandoned her allegiance to God and no longer walked in the fear of the Lord. On a practical level, this meant that people felt a license to sin. The fear of God’s judgment, which had once been a restraining force, was discarded. They no longer believed that God would involve Himself in any meaningful way in their lives, and certainly would not judge their sin.

Dishonesty, adultery, rebellion, greed, injustice: these had all become commonplace in the lives and culture of Israelites of that time. And perhaps worst of all, no one showed remorse. No one had any sense of having offended God and the requirements of His Law. Instead the culture they had created, both political and religious, affirmed all of their wrong choices. They had completely rejected God’s authority. Sound familiar?

Today, people feel a freedom to sin. The thought of a divine being judging their sin seems out-of-date, medieval almost. And sadly, some churches (and even entire denominations) no longer preach the judgment side of our Holy God not wanting to offend.

When we abandon the fear of the Lord, it often happens gradually. First, we forget to see God as the provider of all good things. Our hearts aren’t grateful for all that we’ve been given. Second, we think we are self-reliant. Our blessings become the very things that have turned our hearts from God, convincing us that we don’t really need Him. And finally, we lose sensitivity to sin and we no longer hate it.

Jeremiah pointed out the folly of such thinking. He reminds us of how much we should respect God’s power (v.22), that short-term pleasures will bring long-term losses (vv.28-29), and that sin thrives on self-deception and doesn’t look ahead to the end result (v.31). Therefore, fear the LORD, and abandon sin (not God), and live.

The Truth: “The fear of the LORD leads to life, and he who has it will abide in satisfaction; he will not be visited with evil.” (Proverbs 19:23)

Jeremiah 4 “Return O Israel”

“If you will return, O Israel,” declares the Lord, “Then you should return to Me. And if you will put away your detested things from My presence, And will not waver, And you will swear, ‘As the Lord lives,’ In truth, in justice and in righteousness; Then the nations will bless themselves in Him, And in Him they will glory.” (vv.1-2)

Our passage today includes God’s plea for His people to repent. But they refused, and now destruction is coming. Had they only repented in truth and righteousness “the nations would have been blessed in Him and in God they would glory (v.2). Instead, the prophet urges this unrepentant people on the brink of disaster to “put on sackcloth, lament and wail” (v.8).

How often do we as Christians, by refusing to repent, miss out on what God had planned for us? Or, how often do we see others who have sinned and are facing terrible consequences, but will not turn from their sin and repent. In the coming weeks as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our savior, may we consider this, are we moving toward Him or away from Him? If you are finding it is the latter, repent, and return to Him. He is waiting to forgive.

The little choices we must make, will chart the course of life we take;

We either choose the path of right, or wander off without God's light. (DJD)

The Truth: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” (Acts 3:19)

Jeremiah 3 “Return Backsliding Israel”

“Return, backsliding Israel, says the LORD and I will not cause mine anger to fall upon you: for I am merciful, says the LORD, and I will not keep my anger forever. Only acknowledge your iniquity (vv.12-13)

That’s all God asks us to do. Acknowledge our iniquity. "If we confess our sins, then He is faithful and just" (1 John 1:9). But do not cover it up, nor gloss it over by justifying ourselves, for then God can’t do anything for us. The Scriptures also tell us, “He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them, will have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13).

In other words, confession is good for the soul. It frees us up by removing the burden of guilt and shame of our sin. But, we must also forsake (abandon) that sin, whatever it may be. For only by turning from it and giving it over to God, can the chain of a hidden/secrete sin in your life be broken. Covering it up will not work. You can’t fool God. Confess it to the LORD, and you will experience His Love, His mercy, His grace, and His freedom from sin.

But, reject His call to repent, and like Israel it will eventually cause His anger to fall upon you. He is merciful and does not desire that any should perish, but "He will not hold His anger forever" (v.12). Better to confess and return to Him today than wait until later in life and risk falling into the hands of an angry God on the day of His return.

The Truth: “When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all day long. For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer. I acknowledged my sin to You. And my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.” (Psalm 32:3-5)  

Jeremiah 2 “Israelites Abandon God”

“Be astonished, O heavens, at this, and be horribly afraid; be very desolate,” says the Lord. “For My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters, and hewn themselves cisterns—broken cisterns that can hold no water.” (vv.12-13)

Here in chapter 2 Jeremiah condemns the Israelites for turning away from God, and chasing “worthless idols.” They had “forgotten” the power the Lord displayed in bringing them out of slavery in Egypt, and the love He showed them during their wilderness wanderings. The Israelites were living as if they no longer needed Him. They had entrusted themselves to other gods, “who like broken cisterns, that could not even hold water.”

What happens when a person abandons their faith in God? Inevitably, they turn to a God-substitute to fill their void. Almost anything can serve as a God-substitute—sports, art, sex, music, work, gambling, drugs, alcohol, TV—even another person. To abandon God means we risk being made “desolate” (v.12). But obedience to Christ brings complete fulfillment that gives life, peace, and hope.

Jeremiah’s warning applies to us as much as it did to the Israelites. And we would do well to remember, the one who tries to abandon God, may find (after a time) that God will let him. For His Spirit shall not always strive with man (Genesis 6:3). Man is flesh, mortal, weak, self-willed, and resistant. How long the Spirit will strive with an individual who has abandoned God, no one can tell. But, the longer a person rejects the work of the Spirit in their life (statistically), the less likely they are to return.

Therefore, pray that the Holy Spirit continues to strive with your loved ones who have abandoned God. And that He will continue to pursue them and break down the walls of resistance around them before it's too late.

 The Truth: “For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)

Jeremiah 1 “The Promise to Jeremiah”

“Behold, I have put My words in your mouth. I have appointed you this day over the nations and over the kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.” (vv.9-10)

Here we see the promise of God to Jeremiah. Despite the harsh message the prophet must deliver, God promises to give him the words to say and His presence as protection.

And so it is with us. We must not fear in speaking His truth. For despite our weaknesses, He will give us the words to say, and will protect our way. His Word can be trusted. Therefore, embrace those divine appointments to share God’s Word with others, knowing that He will be with you as He was with Jeremiah.

The Truth: “Now go! I will help you as you speak, and I will teach you what to say." (Exodus 4:12)

Romans 16 “True Obedience”

“For your obedience has become known to all. Therefore I am glad on your behalf; but I want you to be wise in what is good, and simple in what is evil.” (v.19)

Here Paul concludes his letter to the saints in Rome by commending their obedience to the principles of the Gospel, and declaring to them that it is well known to all, which gives him great joy (As it would any shepherd). He is speaking here of an obedience that is motivated by love, that flows from a new heart, which now desires and is empowered to be obedient to the Master’s voice, and to follow His statutes.

Then, at the end of our text, Paul cautions them to, “be wise in what is good, and simple in what is evil.” Great advise here. Understand what is good, and what the LORD requires of His children, but be simple minded, have a lack of knowledge, when it comes to evil and do not become wise in it.

In other words, what you don’t know concerning evil, won’t hurt you. But do not go looking for it, for if you play with Fire you’re going to get burned. 

Help us Lord to be obedient to your voice, to be wise when it comes to doing good, and be ignorant in the things that are evil. Amen.

The Truth: “As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance.” (1 Peter 1:14)

Romans 15 "The Scriptures Provide Comfort"

“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” (v.4)

I have found tremendous comfort in the scriptures. It never seems to matter what I’m going through, in time, God provides His comfort through His WORD. Patience is the key though and more often than not, His timing is far longer than we might desired to wait. But as scripture tells us, “let patience have it’s perfect work, that we may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:4).

The scriptures also fill us with comfort through the many examples of recorded patience, grace and forgiveness extended to others who were sinners just like us. The prodical son, the women at the well, the thief on the cross, Paul’s conversion, Peter’s denial, etc.  As Matthew West wrote in his song Grace Wins, “There's a war between guilt and grace, and they're fighting for a sacred space, but I'm living proof, Grace wins every time.”

The longer I live the more I am certain of this great truth in my life, nothing comforts me more than God’s Word.

The Truth: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Romans 14 “The Law of Liberty”

“Receive one who is weak in the faith, but do not dispute over doubtful things” (v.1)

The law of liberty has created great controversy within the church. In Paul’s day it centered on such matters as: what food to eat, what day to worship, how to be baptized. Today we see similar debate concerning; smoking, drinking, dancing, movies – none of which are clearly spelled out in the Word as immoral.

In verse 14 Paul clearly points out that, you might have a different conviction or a persuasion from a brother (and that is ok) but, don’t push your conviction on someone else, for we all answer to God, not man. Rather, let every man be persuaded in his own mind concerning what liberties he should take without laying a guilt trip on anyone else (in controversial matters). Then live by your convictions, pursue the things which make for peace, and do nothing to destroy the work of God in another persons life for the sake of doubtful things (vv.15-20).

The kingdom of God is not about division but unity, peace, joy, righteousness, and love. Therefore, pursue the positive things in life God wants you to do and unite the body in Christ. Do not divide it and possibly cause one to fall away. Leave conviction to the Holy Spirit who works tirelessly in the lives of men calling them to a higher way. Be patient, pray, lead by example, exhort, correct in love, and watch as He works out His purposes, and His will in those who are being molded and shaped by The Potter.

The Truth: ”If anyone causes one of these little ones, those who believe in Me, to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea.” (Mark 9:42)  

Romans 13 “Proper Behavior”

Here in chapter 13 Paul is encouraging the believers in Rome to do three things; submit to government (vv.1-7), love their neighbors (vv.8-10) and to put on the LORD Jesus Christ (vv.11-14). All three of these directives can be combined into one major topic, “proper behavior”.

We as Christians should be subjective to the governing authorities appointed by God and not resist them. Proper behavior demands that we follow the law, not only because of the consequences if we don’t, but for our own conscience sake (v.5) and witness. Likewise, proper behavior calls us to treat our neighbors with love and respect. In-so-doing, we have fulfilled God’s greatest commandment, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (v.9).

Finally as a Christian, proper behavior calls us to, “put on the armor of light” (v.12) and to walk properly as a living example to others by, “putting on the LORD Jesus Christ and making no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts” (v.14). The key to this is gearing up every day with God’s Word. Only by putting on our armor, can we fight against the “principalities and powers” of the dark side that war against us. Only then can we walk properly as children of the light, Jedi’s for Christ.

The Truth
 “Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow.” (Isaiah 1:16-17)

Romans 12 "Overcome Evil With Good"

"Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (v.21)

There is an old saying: Returning evil for good is devil-like, evil for evil is beastlike, good for good is manlike, and good for evil is God-like. How many times have we all thought of getting revenge, make someone pay, returning evil for evil? It truly is our nature to lash out rather than show leniency or to take the higher road. However, Paul is telling us here, we must rise to that God-like point as Christians and overcome evil with good.

CH Spurgeon put it this way, “The text appears to give us a choice between two things, and bids us to choose the better one. You must either be overcome by evil, or you must yourself overcome evil. One of the two. You cannot let evil alone, and evil will not let you alone. You must fight, and in the battle you must either con­quer or be conquered. It (the text) inculcates not merely passive non-resistance, but it teaches us active benevo­lence to enemies. "Overcome evil with good," with direct and overt acts of kindness. If any man has done you a wrong, do not only forgive it, but also avenge it by doing him a favor.”

The longer I live the more I realize the power behind this great truth of returning good for evil. It demonstrates true Christian love and can possibly bring about a change of heart and soul. And that is the real challenge in life is it not, to “overcome evil?” For it’s influence is truly all around us, battling for a piece of us every day. But, Paul has given us here the key to this victory. Starting with verse 9, and going through verse 21 spend some time looking closely at each verse and how you can make it apply more completely to your life and those around you.

The Truth
 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you? But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

Romans 11 "There Is A Remnant"

“In the same way then, there has also come to be at the present time, a remnant according to God’s gracious choice.” (v.5)

Here in chapter 11 Paul is making it abundantly clear that no matter how far Israel has moved away from God, no matter how badly they have “blown it," God has not rejected His people. Just as there was a remnant in Elijah’s day, so too, Paul says, there will always be a remnant of believers in Israel, not refering to Jewish believers who kept the law, but of those who were at present saved by grace.

As a result of many Jews rejecting Christ as their Messiah (blinded by God), there remains today only a minority (remnant) in Israel who are believers, meaning there is also a blinded majority. This group will remain blind to their Messiah until the full number of Gentiles are saved (v.25). Once that occurs, it will usher in the Rapture and the completion of the Gentile Age (the church) and the blindness will be removed.

The best thing we as Christians can do for the people of Israel is to pray that they will find the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ before that day comes and become a part of the remnant by God’s grace. There has been and always will be a remnant by which God will fulfill His promises to Israel, "For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable" (v. 29).

Make no mistake, God will keep His promises to Israel come what may. And we as Gentiles, the unnatural branch, should not be "high minded." For God did not cut them (unbelieving Jews) off to make room for us, they were cut off because of their unbelief (vv. 21-22). We (gentiles) were grafted in because of our faith in Christ - not His chosen people, but adopted through faith.

Therefore, let us who have been grafted in, pray in the largest remnant ever for Israel, that God's grace will be abundantly poured out on His people. Amen?

The Truth
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:9)

Romans 10 "No Excuses"

“Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (v.13)

People have many different reasons for rejecting the gospel. A common one is to blame Christians for something they did or did not do. These critics say, “I know a Christian who treated me poorly.” Or, “I went to church, and no one talked to me.” Indeed, Christians aren’t perfect, and many can be bad examples. But blaming others doesn’t remove one’s accountability to God.

The truth of the gospel does not depend on the way others live out their faith. Salvation is about Jesus alone, and what the individual heart does with Him. For, “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (v.9).

Some people may use Christians as an excuse to reject the gospel. But they certainly can’t point a finger of blame at Jesus. He is sinless and perfect in every way. Pilate said of Him, “I have found no fault in this Man” (Luke 23:14). Then Jesus did what no one else could do—He suffered death on a cross to provide salvation for all who believe in Him. That makes it tough for anyone to say, “I’m not going to become a Christian because I don’t like what Jesus did.”

Bothers and sisters, don’t get sidetracked by looking at the faults of others. Look to the One who has no faults, Jesus. He alone is the way to salvation and eternal life.

The Truth: “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” (John 14:6)

Romans 9 "Paul Laments"

“I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh.” (v.3)

Here in chapter 9 the apostle Paul was so concerned that his fellow Israelites did know Christ that he would write, “I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh.” That’s a remarkable statement! Far from thinking about himself, Paul affirmed that he would willingly exchange his eternity for theirs.

As we continue to read the text, it is also pretty obvious from Paul's anguish over his unbelieving fellow Jews that he didn't think God was finished with the children of Israel. There is no argument that God chose Israel to be His representative people on earth (vv.4-5), but not all will enter into His kingdom because of nationality (vv.6-8). Only those who would receive and believe God's promise, which today through God’s grace, includes you and me (v.25).

Paul had a great burden and desire for his fellow Jews to be saved. We can imitate his example by praying that the gospel will penetrate many Jewish hearts as God's people are drawn to their Messiah. The psalmist urged us, 'Pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Psalm 122:6). Pray that God will enable His ancient people to find the peace that comes through faith in Christ. For we are all one body in Christ.

The Truth
“The gospel is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.” (Romans 1:16)

Give Thanks To God

“Offer unto God Thanksgiving; and pay your vows unto the most high.” (v.14)

There are many things one could offer to God, and from many different motivations. But the one "offering" that is always acceptable to God, is praise and thanksgiving out of a pure heart. Scripture tells us to; "continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name” (Hebrews 13:15). This is so easy to do, and is an incrediable witness when done spontaneously with a sincere heart, as it glorifies God in our daily lives.

Paying our vows on the other hand should not be done spontaneously, but with prayerful consideration and a willing heart. Thankfulness can sometimes bring emotional responses followed by statements of promise which are but a momentary outburst. A wise man will temper his vows to God with prayer to align himself with scripture; “Let your ‘yes' be ‘yes', and your ‘no' be ‘no’" (Matthew 5:37), when considering your service to Him, and do all things as unto the LORD.

Today as we are all focused on the many blessings we have received, and are grateful for God's hand of provision in our lives, may we give Him thanks from a pure heart, remembering to do it continually in our daily lives, and consider prayerfully how we might best serve Him in return that we might hear, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things. I will make thee ruler over many things.” (Matthew 25:21)

God Bless you all and "Happy Thanksgiving!" 

Romans 8 “No Condemnation in Christ”

"There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus." (v.1)

The great truth of chapter 8 is summed up here in verse one. If we are in Christ, meaning if we have accepted Him as Savior and LORD, we do not need to live in doubt or fear of our salvation. We can never be more free from the condemnation of God’s righteous judgment (the great white Throne), than we are today.

Oh your heart may condemn you; your memory may haunt you; the great accuser of souls may come against you; your faith may become weak and lose its power and grip; your sense of unworthiness may become increasingly heavy on your soul but, none of these things can touch your acceptance with God – if you meet His one all inclusive condition, “accept His Son.” Then there is no condemnation, for you are in Christ Jesus.

Furthermore, "Nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus” (v.39). For God is the one who justifies (v.33), Christ is the one who died, was raised, sits at the right hand of the Father, who also intercedes for us (v.34). So, who is the one who condemns? Ah, yes, Satan. And will God listen to him when it comes to us, His children, His adopted sons/daughters, the very ones He gave His Son up for in order to save? I think not. So the question becomes, why do you?

Now is the time to commit yourself to His care and keeping, that His grace may be afforded to you on that “great day” of His coming, that you may be justified through His Son. (see prayer to the right on this page "connect with God.")

The Truth: “This is His commandment, that we believe in the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, just as He commanded us. The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in them.” (1 John 3:23-24)

Romans 7 "The Inner Struggle"

“For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Who shall deliver me...? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord." (v.17)

The seventh chapter of Romans reflects the inward conflict of the Christian soul who has not yet learned to use the full power of the Holy Spirit. It is the endeavour of a man to keep pure and holy in his own strength, in his own power and of his own will. But man’s nature, being bent towards rebellion, is unable to fight against the dark side on his own. As the scripture says, “Satan cannot cast out Satan.” Therefore, the will of man is unable to cast out its own evil and falls prey to the dark side.

Who has not, again and again, experienced failure after the most earnest desire to do right? The bitterness of our nature overcomes the better choice, of which we are conscious and later sorrowful. Thankfully, there is a better way.  In chapter eight, we will see how the full power of the Holy Spirit helps us to overcome evil. It is only when we learn to hand over our inner self to the Spirit of God that we can become "more than conquerors through Him that loved us" (Romans 8:37).

It is a great comfort to know that the Spirit of God is prepared to renew our inward man day by day, and to make us free from the law of sin and death. All we must do is use it!

The Truth:  “Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day.” (2 Corinthians 4:16)

Romans 6 “To Whom Do You Yield?”

“Know you not, that to whom you yield yourselves servants, they are to whom you obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (v.16)

The truth is very man is ruled. No man is supreme; no man is master of his fate or captain of his soul. We are all governed by an outside power, either the power of God or by the power of Satan, and it is our choice. But whomever we yield yourselves servants to obey (God or Satan), his servants we become.

This struggle of whom we yield ourselves to goes back to the Garden of Eden where God said to man, "Thou shall not eat of the tree that is in the midst of the garden, and in the day you do, you are going to die." Satan then came along and said, "You won’t die, you will become just like God,” and thus the great struggle began. The eventual decision by Eve to eat of the tree (her choice) was one of obedience to Satan and disobedience to God. In yielding herself in obedience to Satan she became his servant.

Today, the same is true for us. We can choose to yield to God, to His Word, to His will, or we can choose to yield ourselves as a servant of disobedience, and become a servant of Satan. The outcome of this great struggle between good and evil, righteousness and unrighteousness, life and death, are found in verse 23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our LORD.” Every man is in one of two categories: either a servant of sin, or a servant of God. To whom do you yield?

The Truth: “As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15)

Romans 5 "The Wonder Of It All"

“But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (v.8)

The love of God goes beyond all human understanding. With our finite minds it is impossible to fathom how a holy God should so love sinners - that He would actually give His very own Son to die that they might be saved. Who of us would ever give one of our precious children to die, that the world's worst criminal might be spared from paying his just debt to society? I think we all know the answer to that question.

You and I, are sinners; but despite our faults, God loved us so much that He was willing to send His Son to die in agony and shame to save us. The wonderd of all that is, God loves us unconditionally out of His own nature. In 1956 George Beverly Shea wrote both the lyrics and the music to the old gospel hymn, "The Wonder Of It All." The simple message behind that wonderful hymn is just that, the wonder that God loved us. Anyone who ever went to or heard a Billy Graham Crusade would no doubt have heard this closing hymn.

Yes, God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. Truly there is no greater love than this. Take the time to thank Him for that love, especially during this time of year. And, if you would like to experience His love in your life today, simply pray the prayer to the right of this page (see connect with God).

The Truth: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Romans 4 “Abraham Believed God”

“For what does the Scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” (v.3)

Here in Romans 4, five times Abraham is called the father of all who believe, and his faith is acclaimed ten times. What makes his faith so exemplary? God called Abram to leave his homeland, friends, and family and move to a foreign land. He promised to bless Abram's posterity and honor him among nations (Genesis 12:1-3). At age 75 we can only imagine receiving this call upon our lives! But without hesitation, “Abram left, as the Lord had told him” (Gen.12:4).

Today's chapter also draws attention to the quality and motivation of his faith. It paints a picture of persistent, and ever-growing unbendable trust in God's power to fulfill His promises (vv.18-21). The character of God, on which Abraham waged his whole life, was specifically His creative, life-giving power. Abraham was, “fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform” (v. 21). Therefore, “it was credited to him as righteousness” (v.22).

May God give us all half of the faith of Abraham.

The Truth: “Therefore from one man (Abraham), and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude – innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore” - Hebrews 11:12. (because Abraham believed)

Romans 3 “Justification By Faith"

“For there is no difference (between Jew and Gentile); for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (vv. 22-24)

Few things of value are inexpensive, and fewer still are free. But salvation—the most important gift of all—is free. Unlike anything of material value, salvation is of infinite value, and yet, it is free. As the hymn Elvina Hall wrote while sitting in a choir loft in a Methodist Church in 1865 reminds us, “Jesus paid it all, all to Him we owe.”

Scripture tells us no one can earn salvation (Eph. 2:8-9). And we know from our text we need only to believe in Jesus to receive His free gift of eternal life that God offers through His Son. The paradox here is, while salvation is free to us, its cost to God was great – the sacrificial death of His Son. Oswald Chambers wrote, “Forgiveness, which is so easy for us to accept, cost the agony at Calvary.”

It is the cross of Christ that bridges the gap we could never cross on our own, and justifies us by His grace to stand before a Holy God, sanctified. It is the cross that unites us as one body of believers in which there is no difference; Jew or Greek, rich or poor, male or female, blue collar or white collar. And as believers, we are of one family, adopted sons and daughters of God through the purchase of Jesus Christ at Calvary, justified by faith in Him.

The Truth: “For you were bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are His.” (1 Corinthians 6:20)

Romans 2 "Judge Not"

“Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.” (v.1)

The kind of judgement Paul is talking about here is a type of righteous condemnation. One that speaks of judging another for similar actions taken by the one who judges. That kind of judgment is wrong because we all sin. Therefore, sense all sin, none should judge, not even the chief of priests. For none is free from the condemnation of the law.

The apostle Paul, once a very strict Pharisee, came to realized he too was not above anyone, eventually seeing himself to be, "the chief” of all sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). He knew the Lord had been patient and merciful to him, so he wanted to extend that same patience and mercy to others.

Today, if we take the time to see ourselves in others, we’ll see that Christ’s forgiveness does not reflect our superiority but God’s mercy. By overlooking the faults of others, we can take a big step towards overcoming our own. The apostle Paul said, "God will judge, and His judgement is according to truth" (v.2).

The Truth: “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Matthew 7:1-2)

Romans 1 “Not Ashamed Of The Gospel of Christ”

 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” (v.16)

Paul sets the tone of his letter to the Romans here in verse 16 concerning “the gospel” (good news) of Christ. The “good news” he presents to them without shame is, “the gospel of Christ contains the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” The key words being “everyone who believes.” Paul’s message of grace is so simple that this is where many are vulnerable to error. They begin to think there is something else they should do, some works they should perform.

Paul goes on to tell us in verse 17 that, “the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith” and that “the just should live by faith.” Faith then is not only the starting point of salvation, but also the staying power as well. Meaning, once we as Christians have received Christ by faith, we walk through this life with Him in faith as well.

I believe Paul showed us the reason for the depth of his faith in Christ when he wrote, “I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise” (v.14). Why? What did they do for him? Nothing, Jesus did! The sacrifice of the Son of God on his behalf was so overwhelming to Paul, that he felt he owed it to everyone to make sure they heard of God’s redeeming love. His sense of indebtedness to Christ made him a debtor to all who needed the Savior.

Jesus said to His disciples, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15). Therefore, if we are truly grateful for what He has done for us, we like Paul have not only an obligation but a commission to share “the gospel of Christ” with all those around us (without shame). May God grant us the boldness to do just that.

The Truth: “If anyone is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will also be ashamed of him when He comes in His Father's glory with the holy angels." (Mark 8:38)

Isaiah 66 “Heaven Is God’s Throne”

“Thus says the LORD: ‘Heaven is My throne, And earth is My footstool. Where is the house that you will build Me? And where is the place of My rest?’” (v.1)

Isaiah begins the final chapter in his book with a reminder that the Creator of all things is not interested in a man-made building on earth. His majesty is so great that it fills both heaven and earth. God was trying to remove the citizens of Jerusalem’s main object of confidence, warning them that they were trusting in the temple and their religious sacrifices, instead of a personal relationship with Him.

The first martyr in the New Testament, Stephen, quoted this passage in Acts 7:49 as an indictment against the Jewish High Council, the Sanhedrin. Stephen pointed out their error in limiting God to an earthly temple, and that God desired to dwell in receptive human hearts. From the beginning God has desired nothing but a personal relationship with man, and today nothing has changed. God is still looking beyond the outward rituals of religion for hearts that are tender and broken toward Him, that wish to follow Him.

Therefore, do not look to rituals, statues, or buildings for your confidence and trust. But put them in God, whose throne is in heaven and whose footstool is the earth.

The Truth: “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him” (2 Chron. 16:9).

Isaiah 65 “New Heavens And A New Earth”

“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be remembered or come to mind.” (v.17)

Here in our text, Isaiah was looking beyond the millennial or 1000-year earthly reign of Jesus Christ, to the time when God will make “new heavens” and a “new earth.” The Hebrew word for create here is not asa, meaning to create out of previously existing material; but bara, meaning to create out of nothing, as He did in the beginning (Genesis 1:1).

The Apostle Peter in describing this day wrote: “But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up (2 Pet. 3:10). So, when Isaiah says, “the former shall not be remembered or come to mind,” it means just that - for they will be destroyed. And the “New” will be so fantastic that we will have no memory of the former. Seeing then that this present earth and its universe will at some point be dissolved, we (as Christians) should have a light touch with it, laying up our treasures in heaven, being more spiritually minded than earthly or materially.

And while we wait for His return, His 1000 year reign, His creation of New Heavens and a New Earth, we should remain steadfast in the work of the kingdom, sharing His love and grace, and His gospel, to those around us. For the longsuffering of our LORD is for “salvation.”

The Truth: “God is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9)

Isaiah 64 “Prayer For Mercy”

“Do not be furious, O LORD, Nor remember our iniquity forever; Indeed, please look – we are Your people!” (v.9)

This chapter opens with a heartfelt prayer from the prophet Isaiah. In it, he  expresses before Jehovah his sense of the desolation of the nation and the city, and cries for a Divine intervention (vv.1-3). Then the prayer becomes a meditation on the wonder of God's ways; a new confession of unworthiness; and an appeal to the Father, not to hold their sin against His people forever (vv.4-9).

We are all lucky God does not hold grudges. His forgiveness is real and it lasts forever. The Bible says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12). In the book of Jeremiah God told the prophet, “I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more” (Jer 31:34). And while the Israelites did suffer for the consequences of their sin (sometimes longer than others), forgiveness and restoration were always available to them.

Forgiveness starts for all of us when we are willing to admit we’ve sinned and, are willing to turn from our sin towards God. For it is Sin that separates us from God. But God, in His infinite mercy, has provided us with the perfect, sinless, sacrifice to atone for our sin, His Son Jesus Christ. By believing in Him, salvation and or restoration can be ours through Jesus Christ. It's just a prayer away. (see prayer to the right of this page).

The Truth: “If we confess our sin He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Isaiah 63 “God’s Pain”

“In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them; In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, and He lifted them and carried them all the days of old.” (v.9)

The Old Testament book of Judges is a somewhat depressing account of God’s people locked in a recurring cycle of rebellion, punishment, repentance, and deliverance. After every divine intervention, the process was repeated. It was always their pain that caused God’s people to call on Him: “The children of Israel said to the Lord, ‘We have sinned! Do to us whatever seems best to You; only deliver us this day, we pray'” (Judges 10:15).

Six times in Judges they cried out to God, and each time He came to their rescue. But the Lord Himself was also in pain. In a remarkable statement, the Bible says of Almighty God, “His soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel” (Judges 10:16) The misery we suffer because of our spiritual rebellion will always cause pain to the Lord. As the prophet Isaiah wrote: “In all their affliction He was afflicted” (Isaiah 63:9).

God’s suffering reached its zenith when His Son Jesus Christ went to the cross to die for our sin. We will never fully understand what it meant for the intimacy of the Father and the Son to be broken (Matthew 27:46-50). However, it’s good to ponder the pain of God, and that even in His pain He extends grace to those who seek His forgiveness.

The Truth: “Now this is what the LORD says--He who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine!” (Isaiah 43:1)

Isaiah 62 “The Watchmen”

“I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem, they shall never hold their peace day or night: you that make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent, and give Him no rest, till He establish, and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth.” (vv.6-7)

Here in chapter 62 we find God speaking to His people through the prophet Isaiah words of encouragement concerning their restoration; 1) He will not rest until the task is complete (v.1), and 2) He will set watchmen over them who will keep perpetual watch day and night, who will not hold their peace, or keep silence, but ever intercede with God for them until Jerusalem is restored for which all the world will praise Him. (vv.6-7)

Who are these “watchmen,” these “guardians of the walls” who will act as intercessors, who will not keep silent day or night?” Are they the priests and Levites who kept watch in the temple in prayer? Are they the prophets, or maybe "angelic beings" like the "angel of Jehovah" in Zechariah 1:12, or simply the people themselves who would constantly pray for their own restoration?

I tend to believe it’s all of them, and us as well. As God’s people (Jew or Gentile), we intercede to God for others requesting His mercy, His peace, His comfort, His guidance. We make mention day and night for the longings of our hearts, for healings, restorations, salvation, etc. And while it may take some time to see those prayers come to completion, we, like the prophets and priests of old, are the “watchmen” the “guardians” of His church until the New Jerusalem is established.

The Truth: “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls as those who will give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with grief, for this would be unprofitable for you.’ (Hebrews 13:17)  

Isaiah 61 “Oaks of Righteousness”

“They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” (v.3b)

Back in Isaiah 1, Israel is rebuked for putting its delight in “sacred oaks” and special gardens, places devoted to pagan sacrifices and fertility rituals (Isaiah 1:29). Instead of trusting its Creator for fullness of life, Israel trusted His creations. The result was lifelessness and spiritual drought. “You will be like an oak with fading leaves,” the Lord says, “a garden without water” (Isa 1:30). Delight in anything apart from the Life Giver eventually leads to spiritual barrenness.

However, Isaiah 61 speaks of the restoration of the faithful in Israel after the Exile. In a series of opposing poetic images, this passage prophesies how the Lord will exchange Israel’s barrenness for new life. Instead of ashes, there will be beauty; instead of mourning, gladness; instead of despair, praise (v.3). The final line of this verse, which is easy to miss, recalls the image of Isaiah 1--instead of dying idolatrous oaks, “they will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”

By returning to its Maker, Israel will thrive. In the same way, by recognizing that we are the work of God’s hands (v.21), and that creating life is His work, not ours, we grow. Because we worship Him, we will reflect Him, and display His splendor.

The Truth: “Rend your heart and not your garments. Now return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness, and relenting of evil.” (Joel 2:13)

Isaiah 60 “The New Zion”

“Arise, shine; for your light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen on you. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise on you, and his glory shall be seen on you. And the Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.” (vv.1-3)

The subject of the prophets address does not distinctly appear until ver. 14, where it is found to be "the city of the Lord, the Zion of the Holy One of Israel," the new Jerusalem. Seen in the prophet’s vision as under the forms of the old, Zion has long been prostrate and covered with thick darkness. But now “the word” comes that bids her to "arise" to a new life, radiant with the glory of the Lord.

Then prophet further prophesies, “For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise on you, and his glory shall be seen on you” (v.2). Just as in Egypt when a "thick darkness" covered the whole land at the word of Moses (Exodus 10:22), and the children of Israel still had light in their dwellings. So it will be with the New Jerusalem. While the rest of the world will be covered in darkness, a radiant light will shine from her to the dark world.

Finally we see in our text that, “the gentiles will come to your light” and “kings to the brightness of your rising.” To Christ, to the gospel, into His city, and partake of the prosperity and happiness of it. Such a great prophesy, as we have seen it partly fulfilled through the gospel (the light) going into all the world, while we wait on the second part, His return.

The Truth: ”And the city has no need for the sun or the moon to shine on it, because the glory of the LORD illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its lamp. By its light the nations will walk, and into it kings of the earth will bring their glory. ” (Revelation 21:23-24)

Isaiah 59 “Sin Separates From God”

“Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither is his ear heavy, that it cannot hear. But, your iniquities have separated you from your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear.” (vv.1-2)

David said, “If I hold iniquity in my heart, the LORD will not hear me when I pray” (Psalm 66:18). Meaning no matter how hard, how passionate, how often, if you have sin in your life, that sin has broken your connection to God. And at that point, prayer is totally meaningless. In this, God is no respecter of persons. Even our sinless LORD experienced abandonment from His Father when He took on the sins of the world. Both Matthew and Mark record His cry, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46, Mark 15:34)

If God turned away from His sinless Son who was suffering on the cross as a willing sacrifice for the sins of the world, do you think for a moment He will hear the cries of sinful men, with iniquity in their hearts, and selfish motives behind their prayers? Absolutely not!

However, God, in His infinite mercy has not left us without a Redeemer, one who can intercede for us (as prophesied here in verse 20), “The Redeemer (Jesus Christ) who will come to Zion (Jerusalem), and unto to them that turn from transgression, says the LORD.” Without a doubt, our sin separates us from God (Genesis 3:24, Isaiah 59:2, Galatians 5:19-21), but repentance (turning from transgression) restores us back into fellowship with Him. Hallelujah.

The Truth: “If my people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)

Isaiah 58 “Fasting That Pleases God”

“Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?” (v.6)

Here the LORD speaks on fasting. This is an important matter, full of great spiritual truths. It is first mentioned in Scripture in Exodus 34:28, when Moses miraculously fasted 40 days and nights and then received the Ten Commandments. In the New Testament, Jesus began His earthly ministry with 40 days of prayer and fasting. Both were in human flesh, both had tremeandous tasks ahead ot them, and both sought Spiritual strength from God.

The Lord tells us here through the Prophet Isaiah that fasting is about many things; releasing burdens, oppression, heavy yokes of bondage, or heavy burdens upon our lives that we can’t handle. And, that we can find deliverance by bringing any one of them to God through fasting.

But, fasting is also about ministering to others, dying to self, letting our inner man shine in the light of His Spirit. In so doing, our flesh is denied, our is Spirit feed, our God is pleased, and “The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard and when you shall call, the LORD will answer” (vv.8-9).

Throughout scripture we see that prayer and fasting have always gone together: And in some cases, is the only way “demonic power” can be overcome. Jesus did both during His ministry here on earth. Should we do anything less?

The Truth:  But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4)

Isaiah 57 “Healing For The Backslider”

“For I will not contend forever, neither will I always be angry; for the spirit would fail before Me, and the souls which I have made. For the iniquity of his covetousness I was angry and struck him; I hid and was angry, and he went on backsliding in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, and will heal him; I will also lead him, and restore comforts to him and to his mourners.” (vv.16-18)

For the majority of this chapter God speaks out against Israel’s futile idolatry. Against the fact that His people had turned away from Him and had turned unto the practices of the heathen peoples around them, developing little idols and gods and worshiping them. Describing the futility of their newfound hope God states, “And when you cry, your gods will not be able to deliver you. They will be carried away themselves by the wind” (v.13a). Then loving reminds His people once again that, “He who puts his trust in Me shall possess the land, and shall inherit My holy mountain” (v.13b)

This now brings us to the point of application in our text. God will not always contend, argue, make a case, for His Lordship over our lives. Neither will He always be angry with us. O He may correct, admonish, rebuke, even punish, in order to get our attention, but the bottom line here is, God loves His children. He knows them, He sees them, and will heal and comfort them. And, even though you may have forsaken God, like Israel who had gone and done these abominable practices, He promises to make available His restoration (v.18).

If you could use that touch of restoration today, see the prayer to the right on this page. God Bless you all.

The Truth: “And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10)

Isaiah 56 “A House of Prayer For All Nations”

“Even them I will bring to My holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on My altar; For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations.” (v.7)

Here in chapter 56 we see the LORD speaking concerning salvation for the Gentiles, “Even them (gentiles) I will bring to My holy mountain” (the church). Meaning they should be admitted to the fellowship and privileges of His people. Jews and Gentiles shall have equal freedom of access to His house, and shall there call upon His name together in prayer.

Thus, the Gentiles shall be one body with the Jews just as Christ said, “There will be one fold and one Shepherd” (John 10:16). Meaning no one will be separated from Him except by willful sin and unbelief. But, if we come to Him, we shall be accepted through the sacrifice of our great High Priest. For His house is for all nations, for all who believe on His name.

The Truth: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever (anybody) believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Isaiah 55 “The Invitation”

“Ho! Every one that thirsts, come you to the waters, and he that has no money; come you, buy, and eat; yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Incline your ear and come to Me. Hear and your soul shall live.” (vv.1, 3)

Throughout Scripture and history we see God’s global plan of salvation at work. As a result of Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection, He extends an invitation (Isa 55:1–5) to all who are spiritually hungry to eat the Bread of Life and to all who are spiritually thirsty to drink the Living Water, and through them to be satisfied.

Our text today focuses on God's invitation, "His free" gift of salvation to all. The words here are not of the prophet Isaiah, but of the Lord, and, are directed to the Gentiles. This call to faith comes after the special privilege to Israel, God’s chosen people, to the entire Gentile World, “Incline your ear to Me, come to Me, Hear and you shall live. And I will make an everlasting covenant with you.” (v.3)

The invitation of our LORD still stands today. His promises are the same, His covenant has not changed, “Believe on the name of the LORD Jesus Christ and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31) Meaning, not just an immediate forgiveness from your sin (though that will happen), but an eternal covenant, a promise that will never be broken, a place in heaven for you and your household.

But, while God's guarantee of salvation is eternal, the opportunity for salvation is not (Isa 55:6, 7). Seek Him while He may still be found, call upon Him while He is near to you, accept His invitation today, you will never regret it! (see prayer to the right of this page) God Bless.

The Truth: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and sup with him, and he with Me.” (Revelation 3:20)  

Isaiah 54 “God’s Unfailing Love”

“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken.” (v.10)

In today’s passage, Isaiah portrays the nation of Israel as a “barren woman” (v.1) Considering the shame attributed to being barren, the opening commands are very unusual: “Sing … burst into song, shout for joy” (v.1). Why should someone who is disgraced shout for joy? Despite this woman’s infertility, the passage contains a promise of great hope. She will not only be able to bare children, but also will need to “enlarge” her tent to accommodate all of her descendants (vv.2-3). What she experienced as shame and humiliation, will be transformed into abundance by a loving God (v.4).

In our passage, God refers to Himself as her “Maker,” “husband,” and “Redeemer” (v.5) Each of these roles is protective and intimate. Furthermore, God has chosen her for Himself. He has created her and saved her, elevating her to a place of great honor and worth.

Looking at this, we must be struck by the awareness that we are the unlikely recipients of this bounty. God loves us. Through Him, we experience both “deep compassion” (v.7) and “everlasting kindness” (v.8). Isaiah refers to the example of Noah. Although God may be angry at sin, He promises “unfailing love” to His people (v.10). The imagery at the end of this passage reinforces that idea. God will love us no matter what, even when the mountains shake and the hills are removed.

If you feel unworthy and unloved, remember that God sees you in a different light. He has promised deep compassion and everlasting kindness. He sees you as no one else does; He is your Creator, Redeemer, and King. His love for you is not dependent on your ability to perform well, and nothing you can do will shake God’s love.

The Truth: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:35-39)

Isaiah 52-53 “The Suffering Servant”

"My servant will act wisely; he will be raised and lifted up and highly exalted." – (Isaiah 52:13)

“He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” ( Isaiah 53:3)

Jesus said we should not be surprised when the world persecutes His disciples, because that’s the way He Himself was treated (Jn. 15:18, 19, 20, 21). God’s Servant-Messiah suffered at the hands of sinners in ways we will never completely understand.

Here in Isaiah’s fourth and final Servant Song, we see the greatest act of self-sacrifice ever known. For it is here where Isaiah saw a glimpse of Christ’s arrest, trial, and suffering - and prophesied it for us some 700 years before the birth of Christ. Furthermore, Isaiah makes it clear that the Servant's suffering was not a cruel accident, or a twist of fate. His body and spirit were crushed (by the Father), who made His sinless Son to be sin for us, that we might have His righteousness (2 Cor. 5:21).

But, despite Christ’s terrible suffering, the end of the story will be glorious. Even though Jesus would be cut off in the prime of life with no descendants (Isaiah 53:8), Isaiah prophesied that He would again see "the light of life" (Isa 53:11) and enjoy exaltation among the great and the strong (Isa 53:12)--because He was willing to give His life for the sins of the world.

Isaiah asked, "Who has believed our message?”(Isa 53:1) Believing the message about Jesus Christ is still the most important issue anyone could face today. I pray the Holy Spirit to opens your eyes to the truth about the “Suffering Servant” who died on the cross for you, and rose again to life, that you may also have eternal life through Him (Jesus Christ).

The Truth: “If you confess with your mouth the LORD Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

Note: If you would like to do just that, see the prayer “Connect with God” to the right on this page. God Bless.

Isaiah 51 “God's Reminder of Eternity”

“Lift up your eyes to the heavens, And look on the earth beneath. For the heavens will vanish away like smoke, the earth will grow old like a garment, and those who dwell in it will die in like manner; But My salvation will be forever, and My righteousness will not be abolished.” (v.6)

In this chapter, God, through the prophet Isaiah, reminds Israel (and us) of eternity. He does so because their hope had been diverted by the pressing problems of day-to-day living. Constantly under the burden of their oppressors, they had forgotten to look up. So God is both comforting and exhorting His people here through Isaiah, calling their attention back to a eternal perspective.

We too need to look up more. There is so much more to our existence and purpose in life than; working at our jobs, paying bills, cleaning house, doing laundry, washing cars, mowing the grass, running errands, etc. Those things are important yes, but temporary in value, not eternal.

In the light of the reality of eternity, and the existence of the true and living God, I strongly encourage you to invest some time each day in your eternal soul. Trust me, it will be time well invested.

The Truth: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matt. 6:19–21)

Isaiah 50 “Servant Messiah Obedient Unto Death”

“The Lord God has opened My ear; and I was not disobedient nor did I turn back. I gave My back to those who strike Me, and My cheeks to those who pluck out the beard; I did not cover My face from humiliation and spitting. For the Lord God helps Me, therefore, I am not disgraced; Therefore, I have set My face like flint, and I know that I will not be ashamed.” (vv.5-7)

Once again here in Isaiah 50, the Servant speaks for Himself and declares His obedience to God, the extent of His sacrifice, and His confidence that God will uphold Him in His purity. Conscious of the fact that His service means suffering, He is not disobedient to the call, and His ear is open.

Oh the pain of what He would voluntarily endure in obedience to the Father for you and I. Jesus, who was completely without sin, would willingly lay down His life to redeem us. And here, some 700 years before Jesus is born, we read of the prophesy of His death.

Amazing grace (valor).

The Truth: “I came not to do My will but the will of Him who sent Me.” (John 5:30)

Isaiah 49 “The Second Servant’s Song”

“See, I will beckon to the Gentiles, I will lift up My banner to the peoples.” (v.22)

Isaiah foretold the Servant role of Messiah in a series of prophecies often called the “Servant Songs.” Today’s prophecy is especially intriguing because in it, the Servant Himself (Jesus) speaks about His unique ministry and relationship to the Lord God. And today, we can read these verses with an insight Isaiah didn’t possess, because we can see their fulfillment in the events of Jesus’ life through the Scriptures.

In the opening of this chapter we see Jesus speaking to the nations saying that God the Father has called Him by His design, to be Israel’s Messiah and Savior (v.1). The Father then sent the Son into the world with the “sharpened sword” of His Word (v.2) to redeem Israel. In verse 3 Messiah then speaks of His rejection, and takes comfort in the fact that His exaltation comes from God (vv.4-5). Finally, even though He would be “despised and abhorred,” God would raise Him up; and kings will (future) bow down before Him (v.7).

The emphasis of this second servant song, is the special call of Christ's mission as Messiah to the entire world. Israel was not enough—the Messiah would be a light to the Gentiles and bring salvation to the ends of the earth (v.6) Distant nations are summoned to hear this prophecy, for it applies to “every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation” (Rev. 5:9). Meaning eventually, "all flesh will know that Jesus is our LORD and Savior, our Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob" (v.26).

Even though the triumphant Second Coming of Jesus Christ is yet in the future, it is as certain as the first.

The Truth: “And an angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the LORD.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Isaiah 48 “Refined By Fire”

“Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.” (v.10)

Refining gold or silver is a long process, heating the ore until it reaches a molten state. Then, as tradesman keeps the heat on, the impurities rise to the surface. He then begins to skim off the impurities and keeps skimming until all the dross is burned off and the metal is finally pure. He knows it’s pure when He can see His own reflection in the liquid ore.

God refines his children in a similar way, through our trials “(furnace of affliction). And He keeps the heat on us until He can see His reflection in our lives. Charles Spurgeon once said of his trials: “I bear willing witness that I owe more to the fire, and the hammer, and the file, than to anything else in my Lord's workshop. I sometimes question whether I have ever learned anything except through the rod. When my schoolroom is darkened, I see most.” So true!

Some of us have been through more in life than others, yet all of us still have more to come, for we are all still under construction. We are all not yet what we will be, for our maker is still at work; grinding, shaping, sanding, and refining our lives. But do not loose heart, for the Master Builder knows what He is making and sees the finished product to be used for His glory.

It has been said, “It is a great help when passing through the fire to know that we are there because there is gold to be extracted or silver to be refined as well as dross to purge away.”

The Truth: “In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6-7)

Isaiah 47 “Coming Judgment of Babylon”

“Therefore hear this now, you who are given to pleasures, that dwell carelessly, that say in your heart, I am, and there is no one else beside me; I shall not sit as a widow, neither shall I know the loss of children: But these two things shall come to you in a moment, in one day, the loss of both children, and widows.” (vv.7-8a)

Here God speaks (through Isaiah) of the judgment that is going to come against Babylon because of their treatment of His people. And we know, from the book of Daniel 5:26-28, that Babylon did indeed fall in one night to the Medes and the Persians just as prophesied here by Isaiah in our text. But how did this happen?

Scripture tells us that God was angry with the Jews who had polluted His name by their false worship. So He gave them over into the hands of the Babylonians. However, the Babylonians did not show God’s people mercy during their captivity. They were very hard on the people of Israel made them bond-slaves. On the elderly they laid a heavy burdens (v.6), and bragged about never knowing the loss of children or widows because of their greatness (v.8). Pride, mistreatment of God's people, and holding themselves above God, led to their judgment, and in a moment, in one day, and they would experience the loss of everything (v.9).  

But for us, it is comforting to know that even when we are being corrected, or disciplined by God, that He is also there as our protector, defender, and shield. And, that the chastening of the LORD is because He loves us and desires to see us restored, not tormented under some heavy burden. But on the other side of the coin, Woe to those who would treat God’s people without mercy, placing a heavy load of condemnation upon them, or speaking evil against them. For God has chosen them and has said, "I will bless those that bless thee, and curse those that curse thee" (Genesis 12:3).

Therefore, let’s all be careful how we treat one another, especially to those in the body of Christ. Better to treat God's people with mercy than cruelty, with compassion and forgiveness, than indifference or heartlessness, with restoration instead of neglect.

The Truth: “My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.” (James 5:19-20)        

Isaiah 46 “The Gods Of Babylon”

“Those who lavish gold from the purse and weigh silver on the scale hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; they bow down, indeed they worship it. They lift it upon the shoulder and carry it; they set it in its place and it stands there. It does not move from its place. Though one may cry to it, it cannot answer; It cannot deliver him from his distress.” (vv.6-7)

Here in chapter 46, the theme is the contrast between the gods of Babylon—Bel and Nebo—and Jehovah. Perhaps nothing in all of Biblical literature is more powerful than this comparison of the essential difference between false gods and the true God.

The prophet Isaiah pictured the gods of Babylon (and so all false gods), as being made by men, carried by the men who made them, set in their place by these men, unable to move from the place where they are so placed, and incapable of answering those that worship them in days of distress. Then he describes the truth about Jehovah very concisely as, “He makes, and He carries” (v.4).

Looking at this comparison a little closer we see an idol is a thing, which a man makes and has to carry. The true God makes the man, and carries him. When a man worships an idol, he is paying tribute to something he made. However, when a man worships the true God, he worships his Maker, and he is carried by Him - and so he finds rest.  

The Truth: “Little children, guard yourselves from idols!" (1 John 5:21)