Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
November 22, 2024
Isaiah 41:8-14
8 But you, Israel my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, offspring of Abraham, whom I love, 9 you whom I took from the ends of the earth and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, “You are my servant; I chose you and didn’t reject you”: 10 Don’t fear, because I am with you; don’t be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand. 11 All who rage against you will be shamed and disgraced. Those who contend with you will be as nothing and will perish. 12 You will look for your opponents and won’t find them. Those who fight you will be of no account and will die. 13 I am the LORD your God, who grasps your strong hand, who says to you, Don’t fear; I will help you. 14 Don’t fear, worm of Jacob, people of Israel! I will help you, says the LORD. The holy one of Israel is your redeemer.
Good Morning! Isaiah is prophesying to us today!
10 "Fear not, I am with you, O be not dismayed, for I am your God and will still give you aid; I'll strengthen you, help you, and cause you to stand, upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.
We all have hard days sometimes. Holidays bring lovely memories, but empty seats remind us of those feasting and celebrating with God. Some of our memories are not all packaged in ribbons and bows.
Isaiah lived in a time of despair for God’s chosen people. Political tensions mounted with Assyria, and the people of Judah made poor choices to secure their future prospects. Sadly, we, God’s children, repeat this same pattern repeatedly. The prophet Isaiah's messages from God were not always pleasant. He had to announce that God would destroy His beloved people for their continued sinfulness. But he also spoke about a future Messiah and the restoration of Israel.
We read difficult and hopeful words in the texts of Isaiah. When I feel challenged, I repeat the words of Isaiah 41:10, which were lovingly set to music as the second verse of How Firm a Foundation.
No matter how much gloom and destruction surrounds us, God is with us to protect and strengthen us. Sometimes, we must live for a time in the mess we have created, but when it is time, God will lift us from our pits of despair. Our God is loving and never leaves us without hope for a glorious future.
The time of Christ and a new beginning is near: Fear not, I bring you tidings of great joy . . .
Dear Lord, We are your children! Open our hearts as we approach another chance to start again. Praise be to God! Thank you! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Christ loves us even when we feel broken and unworthy.
Stand strong on the Promises of God! Pastor Liz
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