I have been reading the early chapters of Isaiah. How depressing to read of woes and judgements. The messages of destruction are overwhelming and one is inclined to jump to a different section. However it is wise to search the rubble ( I mean the rubble of human disobedience) for the precious gems, for they are there. Some have posed the question 'How could a God of love pronounce devastating judgements?' -- sometimes the consequences described are the unavoidable outcomes of foolish choices eg to depend on other nations for military protection in the varying wars. Often times, and distinctly for Israel and Judah, God was disciplining and punishing His people in His jealous love. The worship of idols and the trust put in other nations instead of God must needs invoke the action of God to recover His wandering flock.
Reading the woes of condemnation, we watch out for the underlying cause, and so often it is the hearts of the people have turned away from God to trust and follow others. In our western culture of individual independence, insolence toward God is normal! However when we consider the relationship of the creator and the creation, the relationships of parent and children, the bonds of the Redeemer and the redeemed, the insolence of rebellion can only invoke problems, discipline and punishment.
Has the Lord changed today? He may , in this day of grace, be very slow to anger, but His character is yet the same. I listen carefully to the words of the Lord Jesus - " As many as I love I rebuke and chasten" (Revelation 3)
to be continued
Good night and God bless you with simple , real trust in Himself
Reading the woes of condemnation, we watch out for the underlying cause, and so often it is the hearts of the people have turned away from God to trust and follow others. In our western culture of individual independence, insolence toward God is normal! However when we consider the relationship of the creator and the creation, the relationships of parent and children, the bonds of the Redeemer and the redeemed, the insolence of rebellion can only invoke problems, discipline and punishment.
Has the Lord changed today? He may , in this day of grace, be very slow to anger, but His character is yet the same. I listen carefully to the words of the Lord Jesus - " As many as I love I rebuke and chasten" (Revelation 3)
to be continued
Good night and God bless you with simple , real trust in Himself
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