Creator and Lord Over All – Isaiah 40:21-24

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:21-24 (NIV)

“Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood since the earth was founded? He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in. He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing. No sooner are they planted, no sooner are they sown, no sooner do they take root in the ground, than he blows on them and they wither, and a whirlwind sweeps them away like chaff.”

Isaiah 40:21-24 (MSG)

“Have you not been paying attention? Have you not been listening? Haven’t you heard these stories all your life? Don’t you understand the foundation of all things? God sits high above the round ball of earth. The people look like mere ants. He stretches out the skies like a canvas—yes, like a tent canvas to live under. He ignores what all the princes say and do. The rulers of the earth count for nothing. Princes and rulers don’t amount to much. Like seeds barely rooted, just sprouted, they shrivel when God blows on them. Like flecks of chaff, they’re gone with the wind.”

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“Do you [who worship idols] not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told to you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth [the omnipotence of God and the stupidity of bowing to idols]? It is He who sits above the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; [It is He] who stretches out the heavens like a veil and spreads them out like a tent to dwell in. It is He who reduces dignitaries to nothing, who makes the judges (rulers) of the earth meaningless (useless). Scarcely have they been planted, scarcely have they been sown, scarcely has their stock taken root in the earth, but He merely blows on them, and they wither, and a strong wind carries them away like stubble.” -AMPLIFIED

“Have you not known? Have you not heard? Isaiah can’t believe that anyone could doubt the greatness of God when they see the glory of God’s creation. First, He sits above all creation (It is He who sits above the circle of the earth). Second, He created it all (Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain). Isaiah’s amazement is well placed. How can anyone look at the glory and design evident in creation, and fail to understand that there must be a glorious designer behind such a glorious design?” ~David Guzik

Isaiah has just reminded us that nothing should take God’s place in our lives. For the rest of this chapter, verses 21-31, Isaiah will focus on and emphasize the God’s work as Creator.

Note: We will continue to see Isaiah’s mocking, satirical tone evident through the rest of the chapter. He cannot believe that there are those who could look at the world and not believe there is a God who created it.

“We believe that to Christ belongs creative power–that “without Him was not anything made which was made.” We believe that from Him came all life at first. In Him life was as in its deep source. He is the fountain of life. We believe that as no being comes into existence without His creative power, so none continues to exist without His sustaining energy. We believe that the history of the world is but the history of His influence, and that the center of the whole universe is the cross of Cavalry.” ~Alexander MacLaren

“Don’t you know, haven’t you heard or even been told from your earliest memories how the earth came to be? Who else could have done it except God, enthroned high above the earth? From such a vantage people seem like grasshoppers to Him. Who else but God could stretch out the skies as if they were a curtain, draw them tight, suspend them over our heads like the roof of a tent? God reduces the rulers and judges, the rich and powerful of the earth, to nothing; They scarcely are planted, take root and start growing, before God blows a withering breath, and storm winds carry them away like chaff.” -(VOICE)

Isaiah asks a few more rhetorical questions that could very well be taken as harsh. “Are you dimwitted? Maybe stupid? Can you not see? Have you not heard? Are you illiterate?”

Isaiah’s intention is to cause his reader to stop and think, to consider what they believed, and why. (Although I am sure he was he was flabbergasted by their ignorance.)

It is interesting to note Isaiah’s mention of, “God who sits above the circle of the earth.” In a time when the World thought the earth was flat, Isaiah, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, tells us that God sits enthroned over the circle of the earth.

Isaiah wants there to be no doubt left in the minds of the people when God, the Creator of all things, restores them to their homeland. They needed to understand WHO it was that made their homecoming possible, it was the Great “I AM”, Creator, Lord, Savior, Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty!

Isaiah reminds us that God is the One who is in total control of all things. Nothing happens, unless He allows it to happen. “It is He who reduces dignitaries to nothing, who makes the judges (rulers) of the earth meaningless (useless).“(AMP) Remember this when you wonder about the chaos in the world. God can/will one day humble those who are causing the chaos. The Truth will be revealed.

“Are you so ignorant? Are you so deaf to the words of God—the words he gave before the world began? Have you never heard nor understood? It is God who sits above the circle of the earth. (The people below must seem to him like grasshoppers!) He is the one who stretches out the heavens like a curtain and makes his tent from them. He dooms the great men of the world and brings them all to naught. They hardly get started, barely take root, when he blows on them and their work withers, and the wind carries them off like straw.” -(TLB)

The writer of Psalm 148 speaks of all Creation praising the Lord. In fact, scientist today have found evidence of animals, stars, and even plants singing and making music. The Passion Translation actually entitles this passage: “The Cosmic Chorus of Praise”

“Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Let the skies be filled with praise
    and the highest heavens with the shouts of glory!
Go ahead—praise him, all you his messengers!
    Praise him some more, all you heavenly hosts!
Keep it up, sun and moon!
    Don’t stop now, all you twinkling stars of light!
Take it up even higher—up to the highest heavens,
    until the cosmic chorus thunders his praise!
Let the entire universe erupt with praise to God.
    He spoke and created it all—from nothing to something.
He established the cosmos to last forever,
    and he stands behind his commands
    so his orders will never be revoked.
Let the earth join in with this parade of praise!
    You mighty creatures of the ocean’s depths,
    echo in exaltation!
Lightning, hail, snow, clouds,
    and the stormy winds that fulfill his word—
bring your melody, O mountains and hills;
    trees of the forest and field, harmonize your praise!
Praise him, all beasts and birds, mice and men,
    kings, queens, princes, and princesses,
    young men and maidens, children and babes,
    old and young alike, everyone everywhere!
Let them all join in with this orchestra of praise.
    For the name of the Lord is the only name we raise!
    His stunning splendor ascends higher than the heavens.
He anoints his people with strength and authority,
    showing his great favor to all his godly lovers,
    even to his princely people, Israel,
    who are so close to his heart.
     Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!” -Psalm 148 (The Passion Translation)

John tells us, in the book of Revelation, more about the fulfillment of this prophecy:

“Then I looked, and I heard the voices of myriads of angels in circles around the throne, as well as the voices of the living creatures and the elders—myriads and myriads! And as I watched, all of them were singing with thunderous voices: “Worthy is Christ the Lamb who was slaughtered to receive great power and might, wealth and wisdom, and honor, glory, and praise!” Then every living being joined the angelic choir. Every creature in heaven and on earth, under the earth, in the sea, and everything in them, were worshiping with one voice, saying: “Praise, honor, glory, and dominion
    be to God-Enthroned
    and to Christ the Lamb
     forever and ever!” Then the four living creatures responded: “Amen!” And the twenty-four elders threw themselves facedown to the ground and worshiped.” -Revelation 5:11-14 (The Passion Translation)

“What can be more foolish than to think that all this rare fabric of heaven and earth could come by chance, when all the skill of art is not able to make an oyster!” ~Jeremy Taylor

My friend, the evidence of the Creator is all around us. It cannot be denied. Look and see. Stop and listen. Observe the greatness of our God and give Him praise.

“God dwells in His creation and is everywhere indivisibly present in all His works. He is transcendent above all His works even while He is immanent within them.” ~ A. W. Tozer

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I look all around me, at your Creation, and I can see your fingerprint on everything that you made. I see the evidence of your goodness. I hear the whispers of your love in the sound of the wind and rain. I am reminded of how awesome you are when I look at a small seed and what it grows into a plant or tree. Only the Master Designer could do these things. You, Lord, are so amazing. To think that you, the Creator of the whole Universe, cares to have a relationship with me is humbling. I am so blessed. Thank you, Lord. I am so blessed to call you my Father and my Friend. ❤

Let Nothing Take God’s Place – Isaiah 40:18-20

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:18-20 (NIV)

“With whom, then, will you compare God? To what image will you liken him? As for an idol, a metalworker casts it, and a goldsmith overlays it with gold and fashions silver chains for it. A person too poor to present such an offering selects wood that will not rot; they look for a skilled worker to set up an idol that will not topple.”

Isaiah 40:18-20 (MSG)

“So who even comes close to being like God? To whom or what can you compare him? Some no-god idol? Ridiculous! It’s made in a workshop, cast in bronze, given a thin veneer of gold, and draped with silver filigree. Or, perhaps someone will select a fine wood—olive wood, say—that won’t rot, then hire a woodcarver to make a no-god, giving special care to its base so it won’t tip over!”

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“To whom then will you liken God? Or with what likeness will you compare Him? As for the cast image (idol), a metalworker casts it, a goldsmith overlays it with gold and a silversmith casts its silver chains.
He who is too impoverished for such an offering [to give to his god] chooses a tree that will not rot; he seeks out for himself a skillful craftsman to [carve and] set up an idol that will not totter.” -AMPLIFIED

“Look at the care you have to give to your idols. First, you have to choose good wood, because who wants to worship a rotting god? Then you must choose a skilled workman because who wants to worship a poorly made god? Then it has to be well designed because who wants to worship a god that keeps falling over? “Whenever Isaiah speaks about idolatry, he cannot keep from using the most cutting mockery.” ~Harry Bultema

In yesterday’s text, Isaiah argued that there was/is no person like our God. No one could/can compare to His awesomeness. Isaiah tells us that every nation/group of people are just a drop in the bucket compared to Adonai:

“Even the nations are to him like a drop in a bucket,
    regarded as nothing more than dust on a scale.
    He picks up the islands like fine grains of sand.
All of Lebanon’s trees are not enough firewood for him,
    nor are all its animals enough for a burnt offering.
The nations are nothing in his eyes;
     he regards them as absolutely nothing.” -Isaiah 40:15-17 (The Passion Translation)

In today’s text, we find Isaiah’s theme continuing, “There is no one like our God.” But this time Isaiah compares Adonai to the idols that Israel had so readily turned to, to worship and to praise. More than any other prophet, we find Isaiah condemning the people of Israel in their folly of worshiping idols, false gods. His sarcasm, and condescending tone is evident as he makes his argument against idolatry in our text.

“So would you try to find someone to compare to Him? Can you think of anything that has a likeness to God? An idol? Hardly. They are made by human hands. Even if they are overlaid with gold, decorated with silver, and shaped by the world’s best artisans, they are subject to tarnish, tearing, and breaking. Those who cannot afford such an extravagant offering select a choice hardwood that will not rot, and seek a skilled artisan to fashion an image that will not totter and fall.” -(VOICE)

Isaiah argues, “Who can even come close to being compared to God?” Then he launches into an assertion of the foolishness of worshiping man-made gods. These effigies were just a piece of wood cover over in gold or silver. They were nothing! They could not even accept the sacrifices made to them, never mind save, protect, or provide for the one who worshiped them. They were immovable, impotent, worthless.

“How can we describe God? With what can we compare him? With an idol? An idol made from a mold, overlaid with gold, and with silver chains around its neck? The man too poor to buy expensive gods like that will find a tree free from rot and hire a man to carve a face on it, and that’s his god—a god that cannot even move!” -(TLB)

 “What likeness will you compare to Him? There are many likenesses that represent the gods of the nations. How do they compare to God? They don’t compare at all, because they are only the work of men’s hands (the workman molds an image).” ~David Guzik

In the book of Exodus, we find God speaking to the people of Israel, and He gave to them the Ten Commandments that He had instituted for them. The very first few applied to their worship of Him, and they

“I am the Eternal your God. I led you out of Egypt and liberated you from lives of slavery and oppression. You are not to serve any other gods before Me. You are not to make any idol or image of other gods. In fact, you are not to make an image of anything in the heavens above, on the earth below, or in the waters beneath. You are not to bow down and serve any image, for I, the Eternal your God, am a jealous God. As for those who are not loyal to Me, their children will endure the consequences of their sins for three or four generations. But for those who love Me and keep My directives, their children will experience My loyal love for a thousand generations.” -Exodus 20:2-6 (VOICE)

Sadly, the people of Israel did not follow, nor keep the commandments of the Lord. They turned to false gods, they worshiped to them, they sacrificed to them, and they turned their backs on the One and only True God. So, God allowed them to be conquered, with the intention that their hearts would turn back to Him.

Further along in the book of Isaiah we find this Message from God given to Cyrus, the king of Persia. God had chosen Cyrus to be the vessel that would not just discipline His people, but would help spread the news to the whole world, “There is One God, and His Name is Jehovah.”

“I am Yahweh, the only God there is,
    and you’ll never find another.
    I will strengthen you for victory,
    even though you do not intimately know who I am.
Yet through you everyone will know who I really am.
    Those from the rising sun in the east to the west,
    everyone everywhere will know
    that I am Yahweh, the one and only God,
     and there is no other.” -Isaiah 45:5-6 (The Passion Translation)

“Maybe we are not as crude as the ancient Israelites, though some nations are. However, some people worship a crucifix, others will worship the church, or idolize the preacher. Some people will bow before the gods of materialism, ambition, sex, even home and loved ones, and will substitute anything if only they can escape having to get down to the basic need of facing why it is that God does not guide or deliver.”  Alan Redpath

My friend, let us be careful that we are not allowing things to take God’s rightful place in our lives. No one, and no thing should take His rightful place in our hearts. Idols cannot compare to our awesome God, they are but a rotting piece of material covered over with glitter and paint, powerless to save. But our God, He is able to keep us from stumbling, upright, and firmly planted in His presence. Trust in the One who is Imperishable, The One who holds all majesty, glory and power.

“Now, to the one with enough power to prevent you from stumbling into sin and bring you faultless before his glorious presence to stand before him with ecstatic delight, to the only God our Savior, through our Lord Jesus Christ, be endless glory and majesty, great power and authority—from before he created time, now, and throughout all the ages of eternity. Amen!” ~Jude (Jude 1:24-25 The Passion Translation)

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, there is nothing that compares to you. You are loving, kind, and helpful. You can hear me when I call, and you even answer. You are the One who is from everlasting to everlasting. You alone deserve all glory, honor, and praise. Help me, Lord, to keep you at the center of my life, so that I am focused on you, walking with you, and talking with you. I do not want other things to usurp your rightful place. Help me to be diligently watching, making sure that You are first and foremost in my life. Thank you for being my number one fan. You are so good to me.

There is No One Like Our God – Isaiah 40:15-17

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:15-17 (NIV)

“Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales; he weighs the islands as though they were fine dust. Lebanon is not sufficient for altar fires, nor its animals enough for burnt offerings. Before him all the nations are as nothing; they are regarded by him as worthless and less than nothing.”

Isaiah 40:15-17 (MSG)

“Why, the nations are but a drop in a bucket, a mere smudge on a window. Watch him sweep up the islands like so much dust off the floor! There aren’t enough trees in Lebanon nor enough animals in those vast forests to furnish adequate fuel and offerings for his worship. All the nations add up to simply nothing before him—less than nothing is more like it. A minus.”

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“In fact, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are regarded as a speck of dust on the scales; now look, He lifts up the islands like fine dust. And [the forests of] Lebanon cannot supply sufficient fuel to start a fire, nor are its wild beasts enough for a burnt offering [worthy of the Lord].
All the nations are as nothing before Him, they are regarded by Him as less than nothing and meaningless.” -AMPLIFIED

Yesterday, Isaiah asked us six rhetorical questions. Questions that were intended to make the reader stop and think. His premise? Who can truly understand God?

“Who fully understands the Spirit of Yahweh
    or is wise enough to counsel him?
Whom does he consult to be enlightened?
    Who teaches him the ways of justice?
    Who imparts knowledge to him or shows him
     the true path of wisdom?” -Isaiah 40:13-14 (The Passion Translation)

After searching through the Word of God, we came to the conclusion that it should be our lifelong pursuit to know God, even though we will never fully know Him this side of Glory.

In today’s text Isaiah drives home his conclusion that there is no one like Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty.

“Face it; the nations are nothing but a drop in the bucket, only a smidgen on the scales by the reckoning of God. He can pick up entire islands as if they are grains of dirt. Even if we had all the resources of Lebanon—all of its trees to burn for fuel, all of its animals for burnt offerings—How could we think that we’ve got enough to give to God? All the countries of the world don’t add up to anything. In the eyes of God they are less than nothing; they are empty wastelands.” -(VOICE)

We find Isaiah trying to compare God’s greatness to others, and he comes to the conclusion that there is no one who can compare to God. No One!

Isaiah tells us that the nations of the world are but a drop in the bucket compared to God. In fact, they would register on God’s scales as a speck of dust. A speck, a tiny particle, insignificant and worthless. If God so desired, He could lift up whole islands as if they were nothing.

Reference is then made concerning the trees of Lebanon, which were cedar, and known to be magnificent, bringing in much wealth for the nation of Lebanon. Isaiah tells us that if all the cedar forests in Lebanon were to be burned to consume sacrifices to the Lord, it would not be enough. We could not burn enough sacrifices to satisfy God. Mankind’s efforts to bring glory and honor to Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, could never be enough.

Isaiah’s final assessment in our passage is that all nations are nothing compared to God.

“No, for all the peoples of the world are nothing in comparison with him—they are but a drop in the bucket, dust on the scales. He picks up the islands as though they had no weight at all. All of Lebanon’s forests do not contain sufficient fuel to consume a sacrifice large enough to honor him, nor are all its animals enough to offer to our God. All the nations are as nothing to him; in his eyes they are less than nothing—mere emptiness and froth.” -(TLB)

“In this chapter, God declares His greatness over all creation, but He never says of creation that it is less than nothing and worthless. But the nations have an arrogance, a pride against God that puts them lower than creation itself – He accounts them less than nothing and worthless.” ~David Guzik

Throughout the Bible we find others attesting to the fact that there is no one, nor will there ever be, who compares to Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty.

Moses, before he died, testified to the greatness and goodness of God to the people of Israel. Moses said:

“There is none like the God of Jeshurun (Israel),
Who rides the heavens to your help,
And through the skies in His majestic glory.
The eternal God is your refuge and dwelling place,
And underneath are the everlasting arms;
He drove out the enemy from before you,
And said, ‘Destroy!’” -Deuteronomy 33:26-27 (AMP)

Jeremiah also gave testament to the greatness of God, and how there was no one who could compare to Him. Jeremiah said:

“O Eternal One, there is no comparison.
    You are great; even Your name is powerful.
 Who wouldn’t worship You? It is only right;
    You are the King of all kingdoms.
The wise and powerful men of all nations in their realms
    are still nothing compared to You.” -Jeremiah 10:6-7 (VOICE)

Even in the book of Isaiah we find God personally speaking to the people of Israel, telling them to “listen up”, “think about it”, it was God, the One and Only, who has carried them along, protecting, caring for them from the very beginning. God said:

“Think about this. Wrap your minds around it.
    This is serious business, rebels. Take it to heart.
Remember your history,
    your long and rich history.
I am God, the only God you’ve had or ever will have—
    incomparable, irreplaceable—
From the very beginning
    telling you what the ending will be,
All along letting you in
    on what is going to happen,
Assuring you, ‘I’m in this for the long haul,
    I’ll do exactly what I set out to do,’…” -Isaiah 46:8-10 (MSG)

And these are just a few of the passages that give testament to the fact there is no one who compares to our God. The Bible is full of other testimonials.

“God’s unfailing love for us is an objective fact affirmed over and over in the Scriptures. It is true whether we believe it or not. Our doubts do not destroy God’s love, nor does our faith create it. It originates in the very nature of God, who is love, and it flows to us through our union with His beloved Son.” ~Jerry Bridges

My friend, there is no one like our God! He is one of a kind. The amazing thing is that He cares for us as individuals. His love for us is unrelenting. The fact that He desires to have a personal relationship with each of us is so wonderful. And even though we could never praise Him enough, or do enough to show Him how much we love and appreciate Him, that does not mean we should not try. Take the time today to tell God how amazing He truly is to you. Let Him know you love and appreciate Him. It is the least we can do, as well as living our lives as a living sacrifice to Him.

“So much competes with our Father’s love, but in the end, not a single thing compares.” ~Marisa Donnelly

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, there is no one like you. You are one of a kind, wonderful, marvelous, fantastic, and mind-blowing. What is any person compared to you. Remind me, dear Lord, to always keep my eyes focused on you. Others will let me down, they will make promises and not keep them, but you are Faithful and True. You always keep your promises. You always stick with me, closer than a brother. Lord, you are so wonderful. I thank and praise you for who you are. I am so grateful for your steadfast love. Thank you for allowing me to call you Friend. ❤

Who Can Understand God? – Isaiah 40:13-14

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:13-14 (NIV)

“Who can fathom the Spirit of the Lord, or instruct the Lord as his counselor? Whom did the Lord consult to enlighten him, and who taught him the right way? Who was it that taught him knowledge, or showed him the path of understanding?”

Isaiah 40:13-14 (MSG)

“Who could ever have told God what to do or taught him his business? What expert would he have gone to for advice, what school would he attend to learn justice? What god do you suppose might have taught him what he knows, showed him how things work?”

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“Who has directed the Spirit of the Lord, or has taught Him as His counselor? With whom did He consult and who enlightened Him? Who taught Him the path of justice and taught Him knowledge and informed Him of the way of understanding?” -AMPLIFIED

“God trusts most those who know Him best, and those who know Him best are those who have spent the most time with Him.” ~Mark Batterson

In our text today, we find Isaiah continuing to ask rhetorical questions. Questions that should stimulate the people to consider who their God is, and what He is capable of.

“Who has directed the Spirit of the Eternal One? Can anyone claim to be His advisor? To whom did God turn for advice or instruction? Whom did He consult about right and wrong? Who directed Him down the path of justice or imparted to Him knowledge or taught Him the way of understanding?” -(VOICE)

Isaiah asks six thought-provoking questions in these two verses.

1.) “Who has known the mind of the Lord?” (ICB)

2.) “Who has been able to give the Lord advice?” (ICB)

3.) “Whom did the Lord ask for help?” (ICB)

4.) “Who taught him the right way?” (ICB)

5.) “Who taught the Lord knowledge?” (ICB)

6.) “Who showed him the way to understanding?” (ICB)

All six questions seem childlike and naïve in nature, but we need to acknowledge and admit that we all have had thoughts just like these, even as adults.

^“Who can advise the Spirit of the Lord or be his teacher or give him counsel? Has he ever needed anyone’s advice? Did he need instruction as to what is right and best?” -(TLB)

“God needs no counsel, no instruction, no teacher, and no one to show Him the way of understanding.” ~David Guzik

This passage from Isaiah was quoted by Paul in two places in the New Testament. First, in his letter to the Romans, where we find him asking a few rhetorical questions of his own:

“Who could ever wrap their minds around the riches of God, the depth of his wisdom, and the marvel of his perfect knowledge? Who could ever explain the wonder of his decisions or search out the mysterious way he carries out his plans? For who has discovered how the Lord thinks
    or is wise enough to be the one
     to advise him in his plans? Or: “Who has ever first given something to God
     that obligates God to owe him something in return?” For out of him, the sustainer of everything, came everything, and now everything finds fulfillment in him. May all praise and honor be given to him forever! Amen!” -Romans 11:33-36 (The Passion Translation)

Secondly, we find reference to Isaiah’s passage in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. In this passage Paul tells us that as believers, who possess the Holy Spirit, we now possess the perceptions of Christ’s mind and can therefore put into action His purposes on the earth.

“Someone living on an entirely human level rejects the revelations of God’s Spirit, for they make no sense to him. He can’t understand the revelations of the Spirit because they are only discovered by the illumination of the Spirit. Those who live in the Spirit are able to carefully evaluate all things, and they are subject to the scrutiny of no one but God. For Who has ever intimately known the mind of the Lord Yahweh well enough to become his counselor? Christ has, and we possess Christ’s perceptions.” -1 Corinthians 2:14-16 (The Passion Translation)

In the book of Jeremiah, we find this Message from the Lord:

“Eternal One: Let not the wise boast in their wisdom, nor the mighty in their strength, nor the rich in their wealth. Whoever boasts must boast in this: that he understands and knows Me. Indeed, I am the Eternal One who acts faithfully and exercises justice and righteousness on earth. These are the things that delight Me.” -Jeremiah 9:23-24 (VOICE)

God desires that we would know Him. Not just know about Him, but know Him personally. John recorded for us these words of Jesus:

“Eternal life means to know and experience you
    as the only true God,
    and to know and experience Jesus Christ,
    as the Son whom you have sent.” -John 17:3 (The Passion Translation)

“Once you become aware that the main business that you are here for is to know God, most of life’s problems fall into place of their own accord.”
~J.I. Packer (Knowing God)

My friend, God’s desire is for us to know and experience Him. He wants us to understand Him and His ways. It is okay for us to ask those rhetorical questions, but let us not stop at the wondering. Let us seek a deeper relationship with the Creator of the Universe. We were created to know and have fellowship with our God.

“But to enjoy him we must know him. Seeing is savoring. If he remains a blurry, vague fog, we may be intrigued for a season. But we will not be stunned with joy, as when the fog clears and you find yourself on the brink of some vast precipice.” ~John Piper

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I desire to know you in a deeper way. As I explore your Word, I ask that you give me your wisdom, open my spiritual eyes to deeper understanding. Help me to make more time to sit quietly in your presence, for I know it is in that quiet time that I am learning more of who you are. Lord, I need you, for I know that it is only you that can satisfy my every longing. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to know you more.

Creator, and God Over All – Isaiah 40:12

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:12 (NIV)

“Who has measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, or with the breadth of his hand marked off the heavens? Who has held the dust of the earth in a basket, or weighed the mountains on the scales and the hills in a balance?”

Isaiah 40:12 (MSG)

“Who has scooped up the ocean in his two hands, or measured the sky between his thumb and little finger, Who has put all the earth’s dirt in one of his baskets, weighed each mountain and hill?”

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“Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand, and marked off the heavens with a span [of the hand], and calculated the dust of the earth with a measure, and weighed the mountains in a balance and the hills in a pair of scales?” -AMPLIFIED

“The saying “God is in the details” is used to emphasize the importance of paying careful attention to the tiniest things. That principle holds, but there is a greater theological sense to these words, namely, that our Creator reigns fully over every detail.” ~Unknown

Isaiah 40 has been a Message from God of comfort and peace. Throughout its verses we have learned and been reminded of:

1.) The God of comfort.

2.) The need to always be prepared.

3.) That life is short, but God’s Word is eternal.

4.) That we have a job to do, proclaim the Good News.

5.) That one day, soon, Adonai Elohim will return for His people.

6.) That we have a Good Shepherd that loves us deeply.

We will find over the coming days, as we finish out the rest of this chapter, Isaiah uses a number of rhetorical questions to persuade the people to trust in Adonai Elohim. Isaiah reminds them that only Adonai Elohim has the ability to set them free, strengthen them and restore them.

Isaiah’s first rhetorical question:

“Who has taken count and measured out all earth’s waters in a single, cupped palm and determined heaven’s expanse with an outstretched hand? Who has counted out exactly how many grains of dirt are here on earth, and weighed the mountains and hills on scales?” -(VOICE)

Isaiah asks: “Who was it that has measured the waters of the sea, and holds that same water in the hollow of His hand? Who was it that measured the heavens by the width of His hands? Who is the One who knows the exact weight of the dust of the earth? And finally, who is the only One who has weighed all the mountains and hills, knowing exactly how heavy they are?”

The point that Isaiah is making, that we need to understand, is that only Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, can do these things, and knows theses details. Isaiah impresses on us the sovereignty of God, but also the fact that He is detail oriented, and nothing is hidden from Him.

“Who else has held the oceans in his hands and measured off the heavens with his ruler? Who else knows the weight of all the earth and weighs the mountains and the hills?” -(TLB)

“Who has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand: Another aspect of our God to behold is His authority over all creation. Our God is so great, and so dominant over all creation, that He has measured the waters in the hollow of His hand and has measured heaven with a span.” ~David Guzik

In the book of Proverbs, we find these words written by Agur, son of Jakeh. They echo what Isaiah has told us:

“Who has ascended into the heavens and then come back down?
    Who has collected the winds in the palm of His hand?
Who has wrapped up the vast oceans in His coat?
    Who has plotted the ends of the earth and then fashioned them?
What is His name?
    What is His son’s name?
    Do you know? Indeed, you do. Every word of God will be put to the test and proven true;
    He is a defense for those who trust in Him.” -Proverbs 30:4-5 (VOICE)

The answer to all these questions, of course, is “no one could do these things but God.” Job affirms this truth as well in the book that is named for him. Job says”

“God understands the way to wisdom.
    And he is the only one who knows where it lives.
This is because God sees to the farthest parts of the earth.
    And he sees everything under the heavens.
Wisdom began when God gave power to the wind.
    It was when he measured the water and put limits on it.
It was when God made rules for the rain.
    And he set a path for a thunderstorm to follow.
Then God looked at wisdom and decided its worth.
    He set wisdom up and tested it.
Then he said to man,
    ‘The fear of the Lord is wisdom,
    and to stay away from evil is understanding.’” -Job 28:23-28(ICB)

Then further along in the book of Job we find God personally affirming His abilities to Job in this way:

“Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?
Tell me if you have ⌞such⌟ insight.
Who determined its dimensions?
Certainly, you know!
Who stretched a measuring line over it?
On what were its footings sunk?
Who laid its cornerstone
when the morning stars sang together
and all the sons of God shouted for joy? Who shut the sea behind gates
when it burst through and came out of the womb,
when I clothed it with clouds
and wrapped it up in dark clouds,
when I set a limit for it
and put up bars and gates,
when I said, ‘You may come this far but no farther.
Here your proud waves will stop’?” -Job 38:4-11 (GW)

The Apostle Paul reminded the Ephesians in his letter to them that there is one God, over all and through all and in all. Paul wrote:

“There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” -Ephesians 4:4-6 (NIV)

“God either rules as sovereign in interpretation over *all* areas of life or none.” ~Greg L. Bahnsen

My friend, our God is Sovereign, and He is detail oriented as well. Nothing is hidden from Him, and He is in authority and control of the whole Universe. How great is our God? Can our feeble human minds grasp His awesomeness?

“Absolute sovereignty is what I love to ascribe to God. God’s sovereignty has ever appeared to me a great part of his glory. It has often been my delight to approach God, and adore him as a sovereign God.” ~Jonathan Edwards

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, you are beyond my understanding. Forgive me for all those times that I have tried to place you into my “box”. For you are so much more than I can fathom. You are the Creator, Sovereign and Mighty, over all, knowing all, and my mind is overwhelmed at your greatness. I am grateful for the fact that you desire to call me friend. You have made a way for me to approach you, Adonai Elohim. I am so blessed to be counted as a child of the Most High. Thank you, Lord. ❤

Our Good Shepherd – Isaiah 40:11

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:11 (NIV)

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arm and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”

Isaiah 40:11 (MSG)

“Like a shepherd, he will care for his flock, gathering the lambs in his arms, hugging them as he carries them, leading the nursing ewes to good pasture.”

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“He will protect His flock like a shepherd, He will gather the lambs in His arm, He will carry them in His bosom; He will gently and carefully lead those nursing their young.” -AMPLIFIED

“The only safe place for a sheep is by the side of his shepherd, because the devil does not fear sheep; he just fears the Shepherd.” ~A. W. Tozer

Isaiah has been telling us about what will come to pass in the future. Yesterday’s text foretells of Adonai Elohim, God Mighty, Powerful and Strong, coming to save and deliver His people.

“Look! Here comes Lord Yahweh as a victorious warrior;
    he triumphs with his awesome power.
    Watch as he brings with him his reward
    and the spoils of victory to give to his people.” -Isaiah 40:10 (The Passion Translation)

Today’s text builds off of Isaiah 40:10, and tells us that Adonai Elohim is the Good Shepherd, who cares about His sheep.

“He will feed His fold like a shepherd; He will gather together His lambs—the weak and the wobbly ones—into His arms. He will carry them close to His bosom, and tenderly lead like a shepherd the mother of her lambs.” -(VOICE)

Out text tells us four beautiful and wonderful things about God’s care for His sheep.

1.) He feeds His sheep.

2.) He gathers the lambs up into His arms.

3.) He hugs and snuggles those lambs close to His heart.

4.) He gently and tenderly leads the mother sheep, who have young, caring for their needs.

“He will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will carry the lambs in his arms and gently lead the ewes with young.” -(TLB)

Over in the book of Ezekiel we find a Message from the Lord that reverberations and reinforces this Message that Isaiah delivered from the Lord. In Ezekiel we find Adonai Elohim disgusted with the faithless shepherds of Israel. He declares and commits Himself to be the Shepherd of His people.

 “‘For here is what Adonai Elohim says: “I am taking over! I will search for my sheep and look after them, myself. Just as a shepherd looks after his flock when he finds himself among his scattered sheep, so I will look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered when it was cloudy and dark. I will bring them back from those peoples, gather them from those countries and return them to their own land. Then I will let them feed on the mountains of Isra’el, by the streams and in all the livable places of the land. I will have them feed in good pastures; their grazing ground will be on the high mountains of Isra’el. They will rest in good grazing grounds and feed in rich pastures on Isra’el’s mountains. Yes, I will pasture my sheep; and I will let them rest” says Adonai Elohim. “I will seek the lost, bring back the outcasts, bandage the broken, and strengthen the sick. But the fat and the strong I will destroy — I will feed them with judgment.” -Ezekiel 34:11-16 (Complete Jewish Bible)

In the Psalms, we find David likening Adonai to a shepherd. David wrote this passage from the voice of experience. He had experienced the loving, protective guidance of the Good Shepherd in his own life. David wrote:

“Yahweh is my best friend and my shepherd.
    I always have more than enough.
He offers a resting place for me in his luxurious love.
    His tracks take me to an oasis of peace near the quiet brook of bliss.
That’s where he restores and revives my life.
    He opens before me the right path
    and leads me along in his footsteps of righteousness
    so that I can bring honor to his name.
Even when your path takes me through
    the valley of deepest darkness,
    fear will never conquer me, for you already have!
    Your authority is my strength and my peace.
    The comfort of your love takes away my fear.
    I’ll never be lonely, for you are near.
You become my delicious feast
    even when my enemies dare to fight.
    You anoint me with the fragrance of your Holy Spirit;
    you give me all I can drink of you until my cup overflows.
So why would I fear the future?
    Only goodness and tender love pursue me all the days of my life.
    Then afterward, when my life is through,
     I’ll return to your glorious presence to be forever with you!” -Psalm 23 (The Passion Translation)

In the book of Micah, we find this prophecy of the birth of the Shepherd. Micah writes:

“But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Too little to be among the clans of Judah;
From you One shall come forth for Me [who is] to be Ruler in Israel,
His goings forth (appearances) are from long ago,
From ancient days.”
Therefore, He will give them up until the time
When she who is in labor has given birth to a child.
Then what is left of His kinsmen
Shall return to the children of Israel.
And He shall stand and shepherd and guide His flock
In the strength of the Lord,
In the majesty of the name of the Lord His God;
And they shall dwell [secure in undisturbed peace],
Because at that time He shall be great [extending His authority]
[Even] to the ends of the earth.” -Micah 5:2-4 (AMP)

In the New Testament we find Jesus declaring that HE WAS the Shepherd. Take a look at something that He said to His followers that He would, in the future, separate the sheep from the goats, just like a shepherd:

“And all the nations shall be gathered before me. And I will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and place the sheep at my right hand, and the goats at my left.” -Matthew 25:32-33 (TLB)

In fact, in the New Testament, we find Jesus given three titles that have to do with Him being a shepherd.

1.) Jesus is our Good Shepherd:

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep in His care. The hired hand is not like the shepherd caring for His own sheep. When a wolf attacks, snatching and scattering the sheep, he runs for his life, leaving them defenseless. The hired hand runs because he works only for wages and does not care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep, and My sheep know Me. As the Father knows Me, I know the Father; I will give My life for the sheep.” -John 10:11-15 (VOICE)

2.) Jesus is our Great Shepherd:

“Now may the God who brought us peace by raising from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ so that he would be the Great Shepherd of his flock; and by the power of the blood of the eternal covenant may he work perfection into every part of you giving you all that you need to fulfill your destiny. And may he express through you all that is excellent and pleasing to him through your life-union with Jesus the Anointed One who is to receive all glory forever! Amen!” -Hebrews 13:20-21 (The Passion Translation)

3.) Jesus is our Head/Chief Shepherd:

“Then when Christ, the Head Shepherd, comes, you will get a crown. This crown will be glorious, and it will never lose its beauty.” -1 Peter 5:4 (ICB)

“It takes some of us a lifetime to learn that Christ, our Good Shepherd, knows exactly what He is doing with us. He understands us perfectly.” ~W. Phillip Keller

My friend, the Good Shepherd is loving, and kind. He provides for us our every need. He leads us in the way we should go. Are you keeping your eyes firmly fixed on the Good Shepherd?

“Help us to live with more confidence that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, not a consulting partner; a very present Lord, not an absentee landlord; the reigning King, not an impotent bystander. ~Scotty Smith

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, you are the Good Shepherd. Remind me, when life gets challenging and difficult that you, my Shepherd, are with me. You will never leave me or forsake me. I can always rely on you. Help my trust and confidence in you grow stronger. Help me to rest in your loving arms, and not kick and squirm to get down. Help me to accept your tender guidance and care without question, for you know exactly what I need and when I need it. You are Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, and I am not. Lord, I am trusting you.

Behold, Adonai Elohim Comes – Isaiah 40:10

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:10 (NIV)

“See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.”

Isaiah 40:10 (MSG)

“Look at him! God, the Master, comes in power, ready to go into action. He is going to pay back his enemies and reward those who have loved him.”

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“Listen carefully, the Lord God will come with might, and His arm will rule for Him. Most certainly His reward is with Him, and His restitution accompanies Him.” -AMPLIFIED

“The seeking of the kingdom of God is the chief business of the Christian life.” ~Jonathan Edwards

Isaiah has, at this time, been delivering a Message of comfort and peace, not gloom and doom. Yesterday’s text, directed toward the prophets of God, encouraged them to proclaim the Good News:

“Go up on a high mountain, you joyful messengers of Zion,
    and lift up your voices with power.
    You who proclaim joyous news to Jerusalem,
    shout it out and don’t be afraid.
    Say to the cities of Judah,
    “Here is your God!” -Isaiah 40:9 (The Passion Translation)

Today’s text continues with its focus firmly placed on the theme of “Beholding God”; to look upon Him, and to focus on who He is.

“The message isn’t to give God a passing glance. No; we are invited to behold your God. It speaks of a study, of a long-term mission to know the greatness and the character of our God. ” ~David Guzik

“The Lord, the Eternal, comes with power, with unstoppable might; He will take control without question or delay. He will see to it that wages are paid, repairs are made, and all is set right again.” -(VOICE)

We find Isaiah directing us to listen to him, and to watch closely, for the Lord is coming, and He will be coming with power and might. The Complete Jewish Bible uses this title for God, Adonai Elohim.

“Here comes Adonai Elohim with power,
and his arm will rule for him.
Look! His reward is with him,
and his recompense is before him.” -Isaiah 40:10 (Complete Jewish Bible)

Adonai Elohim is a title that means God Mighty, Powerful and Strong. Isaiah wants us to understand that when God comes, He will be mighty to save. Adonai Elohim is not namby-pamby, lacking in character and substance. He is powerful. He will defeat the enemies of His people, and He will reward those who stand with Him. Adonai Elohim is not weak, He is strong!

“Yes, the Lord God is coming with mighty power; he will rule with awesome strength. See, his reward is with him, to each as he has done.” -(TLB)

Further along in the book of Isaiah, we find him delivering this Message from God which echoes much of today’s text:

“Go through, go through the gates!
    Make the way ready for the people.
Build up, build up the road!
    Move all the stones off the road.
Raise the banner as a sign for the people. The Lord is speaking
    to all the faraway lands:
“Tell the people of Jerusalem,
    ‘Look, your Savior is coming.
He is bringing your reward to you.
    He is bringing his payment with him.’”
His people will be called the Holy People.
    They will be called the Saved People of the Lord.
And Jerusalem will be called the City God Wants.
    It will be named the City God Has Not Rejected.” -Isaiah 62:10-12 (ICB)

Scripture tells us that when the Lord comes back that He will reign forevermore. In the book of Psalms, we find the Sons of Korah writing about the Davidic throne with these words:

“Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever;
    a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom.” -Psalm 45:6 (NIV)

Jesus Christ was of the Davidic line. In the book of Revelation, we find John recording this for us:

“The seventh angel sounded his shofar; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world
has become the Kingdom
of our Lord and his Messiah,
and he will rule forever and ever!” -Revelation 11:15 (Complete Jewish Bible)

“May God give you – and me- the courage, the wisdom, the strength always to hold the kingdom of God as the number one priority of our lives. To do so is to live in simplicity.” ~Richard J. Foster

My friend, let us not become discouraged in the waiting. As we wait for Adonai Elohim to establish His eternal kingdom, let us be about the Father’s business, proclaiming the Good News to everyone everywhere. Soon, and very soon, our King will be coming to firmly establish His kingdom, and to reign forevermore. Are you ready?

“The only way the kingdom of God is going to be manifest in this world before Christ comes is if we manifest it by the way we live as citizens of heaven and subjects of the King.” ~R. C. Sproul

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, you are Adonai Elohim, God Powerful, Strong and Mighty. I know that soon you are coming back for you people, to establish your holy kingdom, and to reign forevermore. I am looking forward to this, Lord. Help me not to become discouraged in the waiting, but instead, to be about your business, letting my light shine bright for you. Fill me with your strength and power, so that I may be an effective witness for you. Thank you, Lord.

Proclaim the Good News! – Isaiah 40:9

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:9 (NIV)

“You who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You who bring good news to Jerusalem, lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, “Here is your God!”

Isaiah 40:9 (MSG)

“Climb a high mountain, Zion. You’re the preacher of good news. Raise your voice. Make it good and loud, Jerusalem. You’re the preacher of good news. Speak loud and clear. Don’t be timid! Tell the cities of Judah, “Look! Your God!”

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“O Zion, herald of good news, get up on a high mountain. O Jerusalem, herald of good news, lift up your voice with strength, lift it up, do not fear; say to the cities of Judah, “Here is your God!” -AMPLIFIED

“News is an announcement that something significant has happened. And good news is what Jesus and his first followers were all about.” ~N.T. Wright

Remember, chapters 40-45 of Isaiah were intended to be Messages of comfort and peace to the people of Judah. Isaiah foretells of the coming of John the Baptist, who would be the Forerunner that would come to warn the people to prepare themselves for their Messiah. In yesterday’s text we were reminded that life is short, but God’s Word is Eternal.

“A voice says, “Cry out!”
    And I ask, “What should I say?”
    “All people are as frail as grass,
    and their elegance is like a wilting wildflower.
The grass withers, the flower fades
    when the breath of Yahweh blows upon it;
    the people are just like grass!
But even though grass withers and the flower fades,
     the word of our God stands strong forever!” -Isaiah 40:6-8 (The Passion Translation)

“You who bring good tidings, get up into the high mountain: Isaiah speaks of a message so great – tidings so good – that they must be spread as widely as possible. From on top of the high mountain, the messenger can proclaim this great message to as many people as possible. It is a message that should be shouted out, so the messenger is told, Lift up your voice with strength. Say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God”: What is the great message, that should be shouted so loud? It is an invitation to behold your God. There is nothing greater for a believer to do than to study and to know their God.” ~David Guzik

Isaiah proclaims this Message of comfort and joy to the people of Judah:

“Ascend a high mountain, you herald of good tidings, O Zion; with a clear, strong voice make known to everyone the joy that belongs to God’s chosen place, O, Jerusalem, You herald of good tidings! Make the news ring out! Don’t be afraid! Say to these cities, this Judah: “Behold your God!” -(VOICE)

Today’s text speaks of Good News. News that is so important, so great, that it must be “shouted from the mountain tops“, and “proclaimed throughout the nation“. What is this news? It is the news of the coming Messiah, the One who would be “God with us.” This is amazing news that should fill the heart with joy, not fear.

“O crier of good news, shout to Jerusalem from the mountaintops! Shout louder—don’t be afraid—tell the cities of Judah, “Your God is coming!” -(TLB)

“Zion” is symbolic of the church, and is many times speaking of Jerusalem, as well. The good news of the gospel does come through the church and from Jerusalem. The presentation of the Messiah, or Jesus Christ, was from Jerusalem. This is a proclamation to all who will believe. Jesus was “Emmanuel” (God with us).” ~Ken Cayce

Good news. Great news. Life changing news! News that must be shared with everyone; the Messiah is coming! Behold your God! John, the Forerunner of the Messiah, spoke these words that echoed Isaiah’s Message and gave testament to the fact that Jesus was the Son of God, God with us.

“The very next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and yelled out, “Here he is, God’s Passover Lamb! He forgives the sins of the world! This is the man I’ve been talking about, ‘the One who comes after me but is really ahead of me.’ I knew nothing about who he was—only this: that my task has been to get Israel ready to recognize him as the God-Revealer. That is why I came here baptizing with water, giving you a good bath and scrubbing sins from your life so you can get a fresh start with God.” John clinched his witness with this: “I watched the Spirit, like a dove flying down out of the sky, making himself at home in him. I repeat, I know nothing about him except this: The One who authorized me to baptize with water told me, ‘The One on whom you see the Spirit come down and stay, this One will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ That’s exactly what I saw happen, and I’m telling you, there’s no question about it: This is the Son of God.” -John 1:29-34 (MSG)

Before Jesus ascended back to the Father, He directed His followers to share the Good News.

“And he said to them, “As you go into all the world, preach openly the wonderful news of the gospel to the entire human race! Whoever believes the good news and is baptized will be saved, and whoever does not believe the good news will be condemned.” -Mark 16:15-16 (The Passion Translation)

“The Gospel is not good advice to be obeyed, it is good news to be believed.” ~Harry Ironside

My friend, Scripture teaches us to share the Good News. This News is not just good news, it is great news. Jesus, the Son of God, God with us, came and lived as a man. He walked where we walked, experienced what we experienced, and lived without sinning. He died for us, paying the price for our sins, and then He rose again, conquering death, so that we can live eternally with Him, if we choose to be counted as a child of God. That, my friend, is amazing news that we should feel compelled to share with others.

“Listen, everyone! Sing out your praises to the God
    who rules in Zion! Tell the world about all the miracles he has done!” ~David (Psalm 9:11)

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, Jesus, the Son of God came to die for me, for my sin. That is amazing news. I want to say thank you for making it possible for me to have a personal relationship with you. I ask that you give me a boldness to share the Good News with others. For you sent Jesus to die and pay the price for everyone’s sin, not just mine. That is fantastic news that needs to be shared, shouted from the mountain tops, and proclaimed through every nation. I want to sing your praises, Lord, for you have done great things! Thank you, Lord.

Life is Short, But God’s Word is Eternal -Isaiah 40:6-8

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:6-8 (NIV)

“A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?” “All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”

Isaiah 40:6-8 (MSG)

“A voice says, “Shout!” I said, “What shall I shout?” “These people are nothing but grass, their love fragile as wildflowers. The grass withers, the wildflowers fade, if God so much as puffs on them. Aren’t these people just so much grass? True, the grass withers and the wildflowers fade, but our God’s Word stands firm and forever.”

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“A voice says, “Call out [prophesy].” Then he answered, “What shall I call out?” [The voice answered:] All humanity is [as frail as] grass, and all that makes it attractive [its charm, its loveliness] is [momentary] like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, when the breath of the Lord blows upon it; most certainly [all] the people are [like] grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” -AMPLIFIED

“During the time of Jesus, John the Baptist wanders around Israel in the tradition of the Hebrew prophets warning the people that they need to correct their attitudes and behaviors, to bring them better in line with what God expects and desires. He declares (warns, actually) that God is coming and will set things right. During the circumstances of exile, the people don’t fully understand who or what this voice in the wilderness will be; centuries later, as the early Christian community looks back over the life of Jesus and John, they recognize the anonymous voice.” ~VOICE footnote

In yesterday’s text we found Isaiah foretelling of John the Baptist, the voice that would cry out in the wilderness. Isaiah foretold that John would come declaring this:

“Prepare the way for Yahweh’s arrival!
     Make a highway straight through the desert for our God!” -The Passion Translation

In today’s text we find Isaiah’s prophecy continuing about John the Baptist. Isaiah further discloses this about what the voice in the wilderness would declare:

“A voice says, “Declare!” But what shall I declare? All life is like the grass. All of its grace and beauty fades like the wild flowers in a field. The grass withers, the flower fades as the breath of the Eternal One blows away. People are no different from grass. The grass withers, the flower fades; nothing lasts except the word of our God. It will stand forever.” -(VOICE)

We find Isaiah telling us that another Voice instructs the voice in the wilderness to “Shout” or “Cry out.” This Voice was the voice of God, and He was telling the voice in the wilderness to deliver a Message. The voice in the wilderness asks, “What shall I declare? What is the Message?

The Message was two-fold:

1.) Mankind’s life is short.

2.) God’s Word is eternal.

“All people are as frail as grass,
  and their elegance is like a wilting wildflower.
The grass withers, the flower fades
    when the breath of Yahweh blows upon it;
    the people are just like grass!
But even though grass withers and the flower fades,
    the word of our God stands strong forever!” -(The Passion Translation)

“The voice says, “Shout!” “What shall I shout?” I asked. “Shout that man is like the grass that dies away, and all his beauty fades like dying flowers. The grass withers, the flower fades beneath the breath of God. And so it is with fragile man. The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God shall stand forever.” -(TLB)

“The word of our God stands forever: The message is the permanence of God and His word. In contrast to the frailty and fleeting glory of man (The grass withers, the flower fades), the word of our God endures.” ~David Guzik

In the New Testament we find James making reference to Isaiah’s text. His focus was on the shortness of man’s life when he wrote:

“If you are a brother of humble means, celebrate the fact that God has raised you up. If you are rich and seemingly invincible, savor the humble reality that you are a mere mortal who will vanish like a flower that withers in the field. The sun rises with a blazing heat that dries the earth and causes the flower to wither and fall to the ground and its beauty to fade and die. In the same way, the rich will fall and die in the midst of their busy lives. Happy is the person who can hold up under the trials of life. At the right time, he’ll know God’s sweet approval and will be crowned with life. As God has promised, the crown awaits all who love Him.” -James 1:9-12 (VOICE)

Peter also makes reference to Isaiah’s declaration in Isaiah 40. Peter was writing about the enduring, lasting, timelessness of God’s Word. He wrote:

“Now, because of your obedience to the truth, you have purified your very souls, and this empowers you to be full of love for your fellow believers. So express this sincere love toward one another passionately and with a pure heart. For through the eternal and living Word of God you have been born again. And this “seed” that he planted within you can never be destroyed but will live and grow inside of you forever. For: Human beings are frail and temporary, like grass,
    and the glory of man fleeting
    like blossoms of the field.
    The grass dries and withers and the flowers fall off,
but the Word of the Lord endures forever! And this is the Word that was announced to you!” -1 Peter 1:22-25 (The Passion Translation)

The writer of Hebrews reminds us that God’s Word is alive and active, sharper than any two-edged sword:

“For whatever God says to us is full of living power: it is sharper than the sharpest dagger, cutting swift and deep into our innermost thoughts and desires with all their parts, exposing us for what we really are. He knows about everyone, everywhere. Everything about us is bare and wide open to the all-seeing eyes of our living God; nothing can be hidden from him to whom we must explain all that we have done.” -Hebrews 4:12-13 (TLB)

Most importantly, I remind you of who the Word is; John tells us in his Gospel:

“In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. He was [continually existing] in the beginning [co-eternally] with God. All things were made and came into existence through Him; and without Him not even one thing was made that has come into being. In Him was life [and the power to bestow life], and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines on in the darkness, and the darkness did not understand it or overpower it or appropriate it or absorb it [and is unreceptive to it].” -John 1:1-5 (AMP)

“Feelings come and feelings go, And feelings are deceiving; My warrant is the Word of God– Naught else is worth believing. Though all my heart should feel condemned For want of some sweet token, There is One greater than my heart Whose Word cannot be broken. I’ll trust in God’s unchanging Word Till soul and body sever, For, though all things shall pass away, HIS WORD SHALL STAND FOREVER!” ~Martin Luther

My friend, life is short, ask anyone who is older. It passes so quickly, seemingly faster and faster as you get older. God’s Word, though, Jesus Christ, lasts forever. He has stood the test of time and will continue to do so forever. We can always depend on God’s Word.

“As you read the Word of God today, read it with expectancy and anticipation for the changes it will make in you.” ~David Jeremiah

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, your holy Word is eternal. My life is short. Help me to grasp this truth, especially when I am dealing with difficult times. But the Word of God is living, active, and powerful. Help me to truly grasp the significance of this truth. Remind me that your Word is my weapon of defense against the enemy that tries to destroy my faith in you. Help me to utilize your Word, just as Jesus did, when He refuted the lies of the Enemy. Lord, I am trusting you and your Word to help me in my journey through this life.

Be Prepared – Isaiah 40:3-5

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 40:3-5 (NIV)

“A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

Isaiah 40:3-5 (MSG)

“Thunder in the desert! “Prepare for God’s arrival! Make the road straight and smooth, a highway fit for our God.
Fill in the valleys, level off the hills, Smooth out the ruts, clear out the rocks. Then God’s bright glory will shine and everyone will see it. Yes. Just as God has said.”

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“A voice of one is calling out, “Clear the way for the Lord in the wilderness [remove the obstacles]; make straight and smooth in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised, and every mountain and hill be made low; and let the rough ground become a plain, and the rugged places a broad valley. And the glory and majesty and splendor of the Lord will be revealed, and all humanity shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it.” -AMPLIFIED

“By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail.” ~Benjamin Franklin.

Isaiah 40, we found out yesterday, began with God directing the prophets to deliver to the people words of comfort. He encourages them to speak tenderly, words of love, as a father would to a child after they had been disciplined.

“Your God says to you: “Comfort, comfort my people with gentle, compassionate words.
Speak tenderly from the heart to revive those in Jerusalem,
    and proclaim that their warfare is over.
    Her debt of sin is paid for, and she will not be treated as guilty.
    Prophesy to her that she has received from the hand of Yahweh
    twice as many blessings as all her sins.” -Isaiah 40:1-2 (The Passion Translation)

Isaiah continues, delivering a prophetic exhortation. He tells the people of Israel to “listen”, they needed to prepare themselves for a revelation of the Lord’s glory, the Messiah was coming. He also speaks of a Messenger that would come before the Messiah, this Messenger would be the forerunner, the one who would prepare the way. Isaiah discloses this to us:

“A voice is wailing, “In the wilderness, get it ready! Prepare the way; make it a straight shot. The Eternal would have it so. Straighten the way in the wandering desert to make the crooked road wide and straight for our God. Where there are steep valleys, treacherous descents, raise the highway; lift it up; bring down the dizzying heights. Fill in the potholes and gullies, the rough places. Iron out the shoulders flat and wide. The Lord will be, really be, among us. The radiant glory of the Lord will be revealed. All flesh together will take it in. Believe it. None other than God, the Eternal, has spoken.” -(VOICE)

Isaiah first foretells of the one who would be the voice in the wilderness. We know this person to be John the Baptist, For Matthew recorded for us this revelation in his gospel:

“John the Baptist is the one Isaiah the prophet was talking about. Isaiah said: “This is a voice of a man
    who calls out in the desert:
‘Prepare the way for the Lord.
     Make the road straight for him.’” -Matthew 3:3 (ICB)

“A ruler or nobleman traveling in the wilderness would have a crew of workmen preparing and clearing the road ahead of him. In spiritual terms, the message was clearing the way for the arrival of the Messiah by preparing the hearts of His followers.” ~Amplified footnote

Isaiah’s prophecy was much more than a road-construction project. He used this analogy of clearing the road, or removing the obstacles out of the way, as a parable of sorts. It was a directive for the people of Israel to cleanse and prepare their hearts to receive their Messiah.

Isaiah reminds us that this will surely happen, for the Lord has said it will be!

“Believe it, for Yahweh has spoken his decree!” ~(The Passion Translation)

“Listen! I hear the voice of someone shouting, “Make a road for the Lord through the wilderness; make him a straight, smooth road through the desert. Fill the valleys; level the hills; straighten out the crooked paths, and smooth off the rough spots in the road. The glory of the Lord will be seen by all mankind together.” The Lord has spoken—it shall be.” -(TLB)

“Prepare the way of the LORD: The idea is that the LORD is coming to His people as a triumphant King, who has the road prepared before Him so He can travel in glory and ease. Every obstacle in the way must be removed: every valley shall be exalted and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight and the rough places smooth. Whatever was wrong in the road must be corrected. The problems were not the same everywhere. Sometimes, the road in the valley needed to be lifted up; other times a road had to be cut through a passage in the mountains. The idea of preparing the way of the LORD is a word picture because the real preparation must take place in our hearts. Building a road is very much like the preparation God must do in our hearts. They are both expensive, they both must deal with many different problems and environments, and they both take an expert engineer.” ~David Guzik

Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah’s first coming. Others have prophesied of His Second Coming. Even Jesus warned His followers that they need to always be ready.

“Therefore, you [who follow Me] must also be ready; because the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not expect Him.” -Matthew 24:44 (AMP)

Paul writes these words of encouragement:

“But our homeland is in heaven, and we are waiting for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, to come from heaven. He will change our humble bodies and make them like his own glorious body. Christ can do this by his power. With that power he is able to rule all things.” -Philippians 3:20-21 (ICB)

John wrote in his first epistle:

“Dear friends, now we are children of God. We have not yet been shown what we will be in the future. But we know that when Christ comes again, we will be like him. We will see him as he really is. Christ is pure. And every person who has this hope in Christ keeps himself pure like Christ.” -1 John 3:2-3 (ICB)

“If you call yourself a Christian, but you live in a continuous lifestyle of sin, you’re not prepared.” ~UNKNOWN

My friend, are you ready to meet your Savior? Have you prepared your heart and accepted Him as Lord and King? As a follower of Jesus, we must be living our lives in a state of readiness to meet our Savior. He could return at any time. Are you prepared?

“There is always a prepared place for a prepared person.”   ~Jack Hyles

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, it is my desire to be ready and waiting for you. I know Jesus Christ my Messiah will be returning for His church soon. I want to be prepared, ready and waiting. Help me to be expectantly watching and waiting for you, always ready in body, mind, and spirit. Lord, you are my delight! I can hardly wait for that time when we will be together forevermore, never to be apart again. I love you, Lord. ❤