For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in that which I create; for behold, I create Jerusalem to be a joy, and her people to be a gladness. I will rejoice in Jerusalem and be glad in my people; no more shall be heard in it the sound of weeping and the cry of distress. No more shall there be in it an infant who lives but a few days, or an old man who does not fill out his days, for the young man shall die a hundred years old, and the sinner a hundred years old shall be accursed. Isaiah 65:17-20
I resume my deep dive of Isaiah, based on the Precept Upon Precept study series. My study of Isaiah moves on to day 3 (of 5) of week 23, which will bring my study of Isaiah to a close as it covers Isaiah 64-66. Day 3 focuses on Isaiah 65, and here we see contrasting futures for those who forsake God vs those who seek God. In v1-5 we see God describing those who forsake Him, even though God desires for all of humanity (starting with Israel) to seek Him as v1 says: "I was ready to be found by those who did not seek me. I said, “Here I am, here I am” to a nation that was not called by my name." This group faces a bleak and scary future of eternal damnation and destruction starting in v5-6 but also as described in v11-12 and in v13-15 (contrasted in alternating verses with God's people - the remnant that sought God and is saved by Him). In v8-10 we see how God will save a remnant and in v13-25 how these people - God's servants and those who seek Him, will be blessed. Isaiah refers to end times here with descriptions of a new heaven and new earth (v17). Believers be encouraged how God will bless those who seek Him!
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are SO good - that You died to give me forgiveness of sins, the Holy Spirit, Your Word, the church, etc. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues. 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.
