Day 199 of my chronological study of the Bible with The Daily Bible® - In Chronological Order (NIV®) (available by purchase through Amazon - author F. LaGard Smith) continues with my study of Isaiah as God seeks to comfort Israel in exile. This morning God's word through Isaiah includes warnings for the wicked (including those who claim to be righteous yet are full of hypocrisy) as they will not be restored - yet those who confess and who are contrite will be "revived":
“I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite. I will not accuse them forever, nor will I always be angry, for then they would faint away because of me—the very people I have created. Isaiah 57:15-16
God points to the need for a savior - for justice.
But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear. Isaiah 59:2
God then uses Isaiah once again to point to the coming Messiah. We all sin and need a savior. Jesus Christ is that Savior.
“As for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord. “My Spirit, who is on you, will not depart from you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will always be on your lips, on the lips of your children and on the lips of their descendants—from this time on and forever,” says the Lord. Isaiah 59:21
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God - You sent Your One and only Son Jesus Christ to die on the cross so that I could be reconciled to You, so that I could have the Spirit in and with me always, and so that I could have eternal life with You - and more! Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of all these blessings - not by a long shot! I continue to sin...harsh with my words, etc. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.