July 4 -- "Unafraid and Undismayed"

Today's Reading: Isaiah 50 and 51

"Unafraid and Undismayed"

Today, we often find ourselves in a world where Biblical values and principles are mocked, challenged, or rejected. Just as in Isaiah's time, believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, anchored in God's righteousness and guided by His law within our hearts. The opinion of man should not deter us from living according to God's truth.

In this verse, the prophet Isaiah addresses those who have God's law within their hearts and who are seeking to live righteous lives. The exhortation is to listen and take heed to God's message despite facing opposition, ridicule, or reviling from others. The passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining a steadfast heart and being unshaken by the reproach of man.

Jesus often spoke about the importance of not fearing man and instead fearing God, prioritizing God's approval over human opinion. In Matthew 10:28, Jesus says, "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell." Here, Jesus encourages his disciples to maintain their fear and reverence for God, who holds ultimate authority over their eternal destinies, rather than fearing mere human opposition or threats.

In our workplaces, schools, or communities, we may encounter situations where holding to our Christian convictions invites scorn or ridicule. It's in these moments that we must remember Isaiah's and Jesus’ words and stand resolute, unafraid of the reproach of man. Let our lives reflect the righteousness of God, regardless of the world's response.

We are to speak the truth with love and grace, but always speak the truth.

"Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew 5:11-12)