July 5 -- "Pierced. Crushed. Chastised. Wounded."

Today's Reading: Isaiah 52 and 53

"Pierced. Crushed. Chastised. Wounded."

Isaiah 53:5 is one of the most often quoted verses from the Old Testament. Written some 700 years before Christ, it is a profound prophecy foretelling the sacrificial suffering of the Messiah, when He would one day die for the sins of humanity. The verse vividly portrays the agonizing crucifixion of Jesus, highlighting that His wounds were not merely physical but spiritually transformative. The piercing, crushing, wounding, and chastisement were endured to redeem humanity from sin's consequences, offering reconciliation and eternal peace.

Pierced ("nāḵāh" - נָכָה) means to strike or smite with a sharp instrument. In the context of Isaiah 53:5, "pierced" refers to being stabbed through or speared, both by the spikes in his hands and feet and the spear piercing His side. Isaiah’s prophecy was symbolizing the physical suffering and wounds experienced by the Servant.

Crushed ("dākaʾ" - דָּכַא) means to crush, break, or squash. This term conveys intense physical and emotional suffering, portraying the extent of the Messiah's affliction for the iniquities of humanity.

Chastised ("muśār" - מוּסָר) means to discipline, instruct, or chasten. "Chastised" represents the discipline or punishment that Jesus willingly accepted on our behalf. The suffering was a form of divine correction and justice, deserved by all of humanity, but placed on Jesus. This chastisement was aimed at bringing peace and restoration to humanity through His sacrifice.

Wounded ("ḥalāl" - חָלָל) means to wound, gash, or defile. This term emphasizes the wounds and injuries endured by the Servant, vividly portraying the physical and spiritual impact of His suffering. Jesus Christ's wounds were a result of the crucifixion, demonstrating His sacrificial love for humanity.

When facing challenges, remember that Jesus has borne our afflictions, offering hope in times of distress. Let us approach our Savior in humility, acknowledging His sacrifice, and receive the healing and peace He graciously offers. As we draw near to Him, we can experience His transformative power in our lives.

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)

July 3 -- "Creation's Comforting Song"

 Today's Reading: Isaiah 49

"Creation's Comforting Song"

Today’s verse exhorts us to rejoice in God’s comfort, His presence, His care, and His unfailing love. It paints a vivid picture of the rejoicing that permeates not just the hearts of God's people, but the very fabric of creation—the heavens, the earth, and the mountains. This imagery conveys the magnitude and universality of the joy that stems from God's comfort and restoration.

This joy is a profound spiritual and transformative experience. When we face trials, sorrow, or challenges that weigh heavy on our hearts, God's comfort is like a soothing balm, healing our wounds and restoring our spirits. It's more than just a fleeting emotion; it's a deep-seated assurance at the core of our souls that we are not alone in our struggles.

Rejoicing over God's comfort involves recognizing and internalizing the truth that He is with us in our pain and suffering. It's an understanding that God walks beside us through the darkest valleys, holding us close to His heart. This knowledge brings an indescribable sense of peace, even amid the storms of life.

As we rejoice in God's comfort, we find strength and courage to face the challenges before us. It's an acknowledgment that God's comfort is sufficient to sustain us, giving us hope and enabling us to persevere. We can find joy in the midst of adversity because we are not defined by our circumstances; we are defined by the unwavering love and comfort of our Heavenly Father.

Furthermore, rejoicing over God's comfort entails gratitude and thanksgiving. We thank God for His faithfulness, for His promises that He fulfills, and for the comfort He graciously provides. In doing so, our hearts overflow with joy, knowing that God is in control, and His plans for us are good.

In conclusion, let us embrace the joy that comes from God's comfort. Let us rejoice in His presence, His care, and His unfailing love. May this joy be a beacon of light in our lives, shining forth as a testimony of God's goodness and faithfulness, even in the midst of life's challenges.

July 2 -- "Choose Stillness"

 Today's Reading: Psalms 46, 80, 135

"Choose Stillness"

Psalm 46:10 is a timeless invitation to embrace a stillness that transcends the chaos of life. In the midst of tumultuous circumstances, the psalmist encourages us to quiet our hearts and recognize the sovereignty of God. "Be still" entails a deliberate pause, a moment to let go of anxiety, and a surrender to the unfailing presence and power of God.

In our bustling lives, finding stillness is a challenge. We're bombarded with noise, distractions, and demands. However, the call to "be still" beckons us to seek a quiet space daily. It's in this stillness that we can meditate on God's Word, listen to His voice, and deepen our intimacy with Him. As we quiet our hearts, we become more attuned to His plans and purposes for our lives.

Moreover, being still is an act of trust. Trusting God means acknowledging His control over all situations, even when we can't see the way forward. It's an act of faith to release our worries and fears into His capable hands, believing that He is working all things for our good.

To "know" that He is God goes beyond mere intellectual acknowledgment; it is a profound, intimate, and personal understanding of God's nature, character, and sovereignty. It involves a deep experiential awareness that transforms how we perceive and relate to God as God in our lives distinguishing Him from all other beings who possess finite and limited attributes. God's unique nature sets Him apart as the Almighty and worthy of reverence, worship, and obedience.

So, be still and know that God possesses unlimited power and authority over all creation and over the affairs of your life. He loves you infinitely and He can do anything and everything according to His will. He is a big and powerful Being, and nothing in your life is to difficult for Him!

Today, amidst the clamor of life, take intentional moments to be still before God. Find a quiet place, open your Bible, and let His words penetrate your soul. Meditate on Psalm 46:10, allowing its truth to resonate within you. Surrender your concerns, your plans, and your desires to the One who holds the universe in His hands. Today, choose stillness over anxiety, trust over worry, and faith over fear, knowing that He is God, and He is for you.

July 1 -- "Silencing the Scare Tactics"

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 19

"Silencing the Scare Tactics"

The king of Assyria is attempting to use “scare tactics” on the children of Israel. He defiantly tells them that he is going to attack them and crush them. He boldly tells them to listen only to himself and that they should not listen to king Hezekiah when he “tries to mislead you” by saying, “The LORD will rescue us!” His goal is to strike fear in their hearts.

Satan often uses this tactic on God’s children. He defies God and tells you not to listen to the word of the Lord. He comes off so brash and so bold so as to strike fear in our hearts and cause us to cower to his defiant words. It is in these situations that we must listen to the voice of truth, which tells a different story. The reality is, Satan cannot crush you. He can yell and scream at you, and try to terrify you, but we know the rest of the story. No matter how many scare tactics the enemy tries to use, it is ultimately the word of the Lord that stands!

God, through Isaiah, asks His children this question… “But have you not heard? I decided this long ago. Long ago I planned it, and now I am making it happen.” By these words He is reminding His children of three things: (1) that their circumstances are not a surprise to Him; (2) that He established His plan for this very situation long ago, and: (3) that He is not the least bit intimidated by His enemies and their defiant rhetoric.

You would do well to remember and apply these same three truths to your own circumstance. God is not surprised by the turn of events in your life. He saw you in this situation before the world was created and He knows exactly how, when, and where He is going to implement His plan to remedy the situation. Satan’s threats and rhetoric don’t frighten Him, or intimidate Him, or cause Him to scramble around looking for a solution. He already knows the solution. He planned from days of old what He will now bring to pass.

So, don’t listen to your defiant enemy. Don’t let his scare tactics take root in your life. Trust the God who loves you and has a pre-determined plan of victory for every circumstance of your life.

June 30 -- "No Peace"

 Today's Reading: Isaiah 47 and 48

"No Peace"

This verse starkly contrasts the peace God offers to His followers with the unrest experienced by those who reject His ways. Understanding this distinction helps us navigate our spiritual journey with clarity and purpose.

The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) actually carries a deeper meaning than just the absence of conflict or war. In the context of this verse, God is referring to a state of wholeness, completeness, and serenity brought about by harmony with Himself. This "peace" is not just the absence of trouble, but a profound sense of well-being, security, and reconciliation with God.

It's interesting to note that some wicked people may appear to have "peace" in their lives, at least on the surface. They may seem content, successful, and even prosperous. But this so-called "peace" is often a shallow and temporary facade, masking a deeper unrest and dissatisfaction in their souls. They may have learned to cope with the emptiness and unrest in their souls. But these coping mechanisms only provide temporary relief. In reality, this is not peace, and these coping mechanisms will never be able to truly satisfy the deep longings of their human heart.

For those who are outside of a vibrant relationship with God, no amount of wealth, power, or success can truly satisfy their souls or bring them lasting peace.

In John 14:27, Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you." True peace, as Jesus promises, transcends worldly circumstances and is rooted in a deep and abiding relationship with Him. It is never found by turning to wickedness, but only by turning to Him in repentance and faith.

So, how can you apply this truth to your lives? Turn from your sin and trust fully in the Lord. When we trust in Him, His Spirit will induce a peace in our soul that we never could have imagined. We also need to share this message of peace with others so they too can experience “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).

June 29 -- "Our Purposeful Creator"

 Today's Reading: Isaiah 45 and 46

"Our Purposeful Creator"

In Isaiah 45:18, the prophet Isaiah relays a message from Yahweh affirming His unique identity as the singular Creator of the heavens and the earth. This verse emphasizes God's intentional design in creation. He purposefully formed the earth to be a habitation, a dwelling place for humanity, and it was not created in vain or without a plan.

The Bible says the world was made with a purpose, and there are good reasons for believing this. The Bible's claim of purposeful creation is backed by compelling arguments. When we look at how organized and intricate everything is, it's like a sign of someone planning it all. Just like a well-arranged puzzle, the way things fit together and all the systems in our universe work together in harmony suggests someone designed it on purpose. The Bible also describes God as a deliberate Creator, and we believe this because God says it is so. We also know it to be true based on our personal experiences and faith in Christ.

Reflect on the intentional and purposeful creation of our world. Recognize that you are not a product of chance or randomness; rather, you are fearfully and wonderfully made by the hand of God. Understanding God's purpose in creating the world, including you, should bring you comfort, purpose, and a sense of value.

Acknowledge the Lord's plan for your life and trust in His divine wisdom. Seek to fulfill the purpose for which God created you, living a life that aligns with His will, and making a positive impact in the world around you.

Remember each day that you are a part of God's intentional creation. Live with a sense of purpose and pursue God's plan for your life. Strive to honor Him in all you do, for He formed you to bring Him glory. Let your actions, thoughts, and words reflect the understanding that you are fearfully and wonderfully made by the Creator of the heavens and the earth. Trust in His sovereignty and purpose for your life and allow His plan to unfold in and through you.