Isaiah 41

The God of the universe actually says to each one of us who love Christ, “I will help you.” [Is. 41:10 NIV]

God’s help is not deserved but He helps us because He loves us and will respond to our request. This all points to His great love and His infinitely powerful awareness. We can only say, “Lord, who am I that you are mindful of me.”

So often we don’t get His help simply because we don’t ask for it and believe He will do it.

“Ask and ye shall receive that your joy may be full.’ [Jn. 16:24]

Is. 39, 40

“Behold Your God!” The prophet strikes a new tone in chapter 40. Some theologians assert that a different writer takes over. Regardless, something refreshing and stimulating is contained in the words of this chapter. It is a seedbed for Christian song lyrics and a hopeful future.

Is. 38

I directed a traveling music ministry group from Christ For The Nations Bible Institute in 1993-95. The group’s name was “Living Praise.”

The dead can’t praise the Lord, but the living SHOULD praise Him. Hezekiah lamented that he wouldn’t be able to praise the Lord if his life was taken away. He begged God for more years of life.

His confrontation with mortality should remind us to open our mouths and praise God while we have breath. If we don’t, the rocks will cry out.

Isaiah 36, 37

Zeal.

Now that’s a word we don’t use very often. We might say New Zealand, but that’s as close as we come.

God’s zeal is an eagerness and ardent interest in accomplishing HIS purposes. One of His promises is that He will defend His people from their enemies.

If a day comes when a government issues harmful legislation against God’s people, KNOW THIS that God’s zeal will kick in and we shall see His mighty power in action.

He says, “Fear not: for I am with you.” [Is. 43:5]

Is. 35

This chapter has provided the lyrics for many songs of the Christian faith to include Handel’s Messiah. It speaks of the privileges and atmosphere of rejoicing, peace, and prosperity of the millennial reign of Jesus Christ.

We would do well to re-read this passage on a semi continual basis to remind ourselves of God’s promises for our future. Meanwhile we can continue to submit ourselves to God’s refinement process in our lives so that we can qualify to walk on the Highway of Holiness.

Is. 31-33

From of old Jerusalem has always existed as the center of God’s relationship with his people. I’ve been there. It’s great, but there are more beautiful cities. However, none is as significant. Jerusalem was where Christ died for our sins. Jerusalem is where Christ will return and set up his earthly kingdom.

John saw a new jerusalem. As glorious as it is described in the book of revelation, it’s significance is only exceeded by the importance of those that will dwell there. God’s treasure is in earthen vessels, us. We are the city he wants to live in.

Isaiah 30

To God’s people who sought refuge in Egypt (sin), the prophet called them out because they wanted God to tell them pleasant, smooth words. It doesn’t always shake out that way.

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. [Pr. 27:6]

If God speaks corrective words, it’s for your long-term benefit.

Isaiah 27-29

Sincerity is a vital element in a church worship service. It should be prominent in both the leaders and the followers. When excellence in music performance or self-aggrandizement is in the driver’s seat, we have a problem.

Music excellence is permitted if the motive is to give God a quality of glory due His name. (Make His praise glorious)

Self-aggrandizement is not permitted. It is actually anti-worship. It is self-worship,

The prophet said, “Their lips do honor me, but (they) have removed their heart far from me.” Here it is … sincerity is engaging your heart in glorifying and bowing down to the Lord. Your lips will follow.

Isaiah 26

For many years I would produce and direct a local church music production at Christmas and Easter. With the myriad of details necessary, I would begin “losing my mind.” (My wife handles the details much better than I … but she can’t direct a choir)

Anyway, my solution for the stress became Is. 26:3.

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

As I focused on the Lord’s capability, my in-capabilities diminished and I was able to function. This and other key verses have been my survival lifelines. I’m now retired and the peace is more abundant. I really miss the joys of those times, though.

Is. 23-25

The prophet with God’s inspiration could write about the future. As he described the destiny of God’s people, he reassuringly declared their eventual reward and relief from the trials of earthly life. This must be heaven. God’s mountain, the Church, is the vehicle through which God will show all the culmination of His eternal love.

Though our earthly existence has its challenges, our rewards will be eternal. It’s the best deal in the universe!

Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. [1 Cor. 2:9]