A Need for Repentance – Isaiah 47:5

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 47:5 (NIV)

“Sit in silence, go into darkness, queen city of the Babylonians; no more will you be called queen of kingdoms.”

Isaiah 47:5 (MSG)

“Shut up and get out of the way, daughter of Chaldeans. You’ll no longer be called ‘First Lady of the Kingdoms.’”

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“Sit in silence, and go into darkness, O daughter of the Chaldeans; for you will no longer be called the queen of kingdoms.” -AMPLIFIED

“People who cover their faults and excuse themselves do not have a repentant spirit.” ~Watchman Nee

Isaiah has been recording for us a Message of judgement from God against the Babylonians. Yesterday’s text took a bit of an interlude. We found Isaiah bursting out in praise over his Redeemer:

“We have a Redeemer. Yahweh is his name,
     the Commander of Angel Armies, the Holy One of Israel!” -Isaiah 47:4 (The Passion Translation)

In today’s text, we find Isaiah returning to God’s Message of judgement against Babylon. The rest of this chapter will be directed towards Babylon. We need to understand that God is bringing Babylon face-to-face with her sin and giving her the opportunity to repent.

“So you’d best go quietly, Babylon, daughter of the Chaldeans. Slink off into the dark. No one will ever again call you Queen of All Lands.” -(VOICE)

We find God directing Babylon to do two things.

1.) To sit quietly; this was the posture of one who was mourning. We can find evidence of Israel assuming this position in Lamentations. “The elders of the Daughter of Zion sit on the ground keeping silent; they have thrown dust on their heads, they have covered themselves with sackcloth. The virgins of Jerusalem have bowed their heads to the ground.” -Lamentations 2:10 (AMP)

2.) To go away into darkness; a sign of deep mourning and misery. Again, we can turn to Lamentations, and find evidence of this when Jeremiah declared:   “I’m the man who has seen trouble, trouble coming from the lash of God’s anger. He took me by the hand and walked me into pitch-black darkness. Yes, he’s given me the back of his hand over and over and over again.” -Lamentations 3:1-3 (MSG)

God is giving Babylon the opportunity to repent, but, we will find that she will not. Remember, God has already informed Babylon, His virgin daughter, that she will be humbled. The first three verses of this chapter told us this:

“Come down, and sit in the dust, you virgin daughter of Bavel!
Sit on the ground, not on a throne, daughter of the Kasdim!
No longer are you to be called dainty and delicate.
Take the millstones, and grind meal; take off your veil, strip off your skirt,
uncover your legs, wade through the streams.
Your private parts will be exposed; yes, your shame will be seen.
I am going to take vengeance, and no one will stand in my way.” -Isaiah 47:1-3 (Complete Jewish Bible)

We find God reminding Babylon, that she no longer will be addressed as “The Queen of Kingdoms”, the Mistress of this World. Back in chapter 13, Isaiah gave us this prophecy about the fate of Babylon:

“Behold! I am stirring up the Medes against them, who neither value silver nor delight in gold.
They will slaughter the young men, and show no pity on infants nor compassion on children.”
God will overthrow Babylon, the jewel of kingdoms, the splendor and pride of the Babylonians,
    exactly as he did to Sodom and Gomorrah. Babylon will never rise again,
     nor will it be inhabited for many generations. Bedouins will not even pitch their tents there, and shepherds will refuse to rest their flocks there.
Wild animals will roam there, and their vacant houses will be overrun by eerie creatures—
    nothing but owls and goat-shaped demons dancing!
Hyenas will howl in her houses, and jackals will make their dens in her palaces.
    Babylon’s time is up, and her days are numbered!” -Isaiah 13:17-22 (The Passion Translation)

“Sit in darkness and silence, O Babylon; never again will you be called “The Queen of Kingdoms.” -(TLB)

“No longer shall you be called mistress of kingdoms”. Very similar to John the Revelator’s Babylon who sits upon the hills and the mountains and all the kingdoms of the earth have committed adultery with her.” -Avraham Gileadi 

God gives ample opportunity for the sinner to repent. Feeling sorry, or guilty over your sin, though, is not true repentance. Biblically, the definition of repentance not only means to feel remorse for wrongdoing, but to repent of that sin and change one’s behavior.

“The word repentance in the Bible literally means “the act of changing one’s mind.” True biblical repentance goes beyond remorse, regret, or feeling bad about one’s sin. It involves more than merely turning away from sin. Eerdmans Bible Dictionary includes this definition of repentance: “In its fullest sense it is a term for a complete change of orientation involving a judgment upon the past and a deliberate redirection for the future.” ~God Questions.org

In the book of Joel, we find God’s expectations when it comes to repentance. Joel records this Message from God to Israel:

“Even now,” says the Lord, “Turn and come to Me with all your heart [in genuine repentance],
with fasting and weeping and mourning [until every barrier is removed and the broken fellowship is restored]; rip your heart to pieces [in sorrow and contrition] and not your garments.”
Now return [in repentance] to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness [faithful to His covenant with His people];
and He relents [His sentence of] evil [when His people genuinely repent].” -Joel 2:12-13 (AMP)

And in the book of Acts, we find Peter speaking to the crowds that had gathered in Jerusalem for Pentecost. He tells them this:

“So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely erased], so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord [restoring you like a cool wind on a hot day]…” -Acts 3:19 (AMP)

True repentance means not only a change of heart, but a change in our actions. Paul tells us this:

“God designed us to feel remorse over sin in order to produce repentance that leads to victory. This leaves us with no regrets. But the sorrow of the world works death.” -2 Corinthians 7:10 (The Passion Translation)

And true repentance also means in we choose to live in obedience to God. John told us this:

“You see, to love God means that we keep His commands, and His commands don’t weigh us down.” -1 John 5:3 (VOICE)

And true repentance also means that we pursue a holy life. Peter reminds us of this:

“So roll up your sleeves, get your head in the game, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, “I am holy; you be holy.”” -1 Peter 1:13-16 (MSG)

“The first condition is repentance, which means a change of mind. Formerly I thought sin a pleasant thing, but now I have changed my mind about it; formerly I thought the world an attractive place, but now I know better; formerly I regarded it a miserable business to be a Christian, but now I think differently. Once I thought certain things delightful, now I think them vile; once I thought other things utterly worthless, now I think them most precious. That is a change of mind, and that is repentance.” ~Watchman Nee

My friend, remember, repentance is not just feeling sorry for your sin, but turning away from it. It is a change of heart and mind. A willingness to do things God’s way, not our own. God is looking for a holy people, who are obedient to Him. Are you willing?

“Repentance, as we know, is basically not moaning and remorse, but turning and change.” ~J.I. Packer

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I come to you in humbleness and repentance. I am a sinner. I have lived my life pleasing myself. In my pride, I have hurt not only you, but others, and even myself. I am sorry, Lord. please forgive me. I want to be obedient to you, and to your ways. I ask for your help to live a holy life. Help me to change, for I realize that true repentance involves a change. Lord, I realize there is no room for compromise. I choose you, Lord. I choose to pursue holiness, for you are holy. Please help me live a holy life that is acceptable to you. Thank you, Lord.

Confidence in Our Redeemer-Isaiah 47:4

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 47:4 (NIV)

“Our Redeemer—the Lord Almighty is his name—is the Holy One of Israel.”

Isaiah 47:4 (MSG)

“Our Redeemer speaks, named God-of-the-Angel-Armies, The Holy of Israel:”

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“Our Redeemer [will do all this], the Lord of hosts is His name, the Holy One of Israel.” -AMPLIFIED

“The TRUTH is we are not to have confidence in anything apart from God.” ~John Callahan

We saw in yesterday’s text that God would humble and humiliate Babylon because of her pride. Isaiah wrote down this Message from God, foretelling what would happen to this once proud, and great nation:

“Take off your pretty veil; take two millstones and grind grain.
    Lift your skirt, bare your legs, and wade through the rivers. Your humiliating nakedness will be uncovered, your shame exposed and seen by all.
    I will take vengeance and let no one intercede for you.” -Isaiah 47:2-3 (The Passion Translation)

Today’s passage, though short, holds so much promise, there is a confidence and hope for the people of Israel. We find there is a short interlude, a pause, in the passage of judgement against Babylon. In this pause, we find Isaiah, possibly even Israel, rejoicing over the fact that Yahweh is their Redeemer.

“This verse stands absolutely and is not connected with the preceding or the following. It seems to be an expression of admiration, or of grateful surprise, by which the prophet saw Yahweh as the Redeemer of his people. He saw, in vision, Babylon humbled, and, full of the subject, he breaks out into an expression of grateful surprise and rejoicing. ‘O! our Redeemer! it is the work of our Saviour, the Holy One of Israel! How great is his power! How faithful is he! How manifestly is he revealed! Babylon is destroyed. Her idols could not save her. Her destruction has been accomplished by him who is the Redeemer of his people, and the Holy One of Israel.’ Lowth regards this verse as the language of a chorus that breaks in upon the midst of the subject, celebrating the praises of God.” ~Albert Barnes

“Israel: Our Savior, our hero—the Eternal, Commander of heavenly armies, by name—is the Holy One of Israel!” -(VOICE)

In the Orthodox Jewish Bible this passage reads: “Go’aleinu, Hashem Tzva’os Shmo, Kadosh Yisroel.” The Complete Jewish Bible translates this to read thus: “Our Redeemer! Adonai-Tzva’ot is his name, the Holy One of Isra’el!”

In the midst of this judgement against Babylon, we find the victim on the receiving end of Babylon’s abuse rejoicing over their Redeemer, their Deliverer and Rescuer. Notice how Israel takes ownership of their Savior, “Our Redeemer!” Could it be that they have finally recognized their true Redeemer, Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty?

Finally, Israel has put their confidence and faith in the only One who can save them. Jeremiah too had prophesied that Adonai-Tzva’ot would be Israel’s Redeemer. Jeremiah wrote:

“Thus says the Lord of hosts:
“The children of Israel are oppressed, and the children of Judah as well;
and all who took them captive have held them tightly, they have refused to let them go.
Their Redeemer is strong; the Lord of hosts is His name. He will most certainly plead their case and defend their cause so that He may bring rest to their land,
But turmoil to the inhabitants of Babylon.” -Jeremiah 50:33-34 (AMP)

“So speaks our Redeemer, who will save Israel from Babylon’s mighty power; the Lord Almighty is his name, the Holy One of Israel.” -(TLB)

“The foregoing description of God humbling Babylon, for essentially the same reason He humbled Egypt in the Exodus, drew an exclamation of praise from Isaiah. Almighty Yahweh, the Holy One of Israel, would again redeem His people from a nation that had lifted up itself in pride and had oppressed God’s chosen people.” ~Thomas Constable

The Bible teaches us that we too need to have confidence and hope in our Redeemer. For in the end, He alone is the One who will, and can, save us.

Joshua, before he died, gave this testimonial about the faithfulness of God:

“The time has come for me to die and return to the earth. But I want to leave you with these thoughts: Think back and you will know without a doubt that not one single good thing that the Eternal One, your God, promised you has been left undone. Not a single one.” -Joshua 23:14 (VOICE)

Solomon taught his son that those who fear the Lord will have confidence:

“Confidence and strength flood the hearts
    of the lovers of God who live in awe of him,
    and their devotion provides their children
    with a place of shelter and security.” -Proverbs 14:26 (The Passion Translation)

“Deep, contended joy comes from a place of complete security and confidence [in God] – even in the midst of trial.” ~Charles R. Swindoll

The writer of the book of Hebrews advises us to hold tightly to our hope in God.

“Let us seize and hold tightly the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is reliable and trustworthy and faithful [to His word]…” -Hebrews 10:23 (AMP)

In the next chapter, the same author explains to us what faith is:

“Now faith brings our hopes into reality and becomes the foundation needed to acquire the things we long for. It is all the evidence required to prove what is still unseen. This testimony of faith is what previous generations were commended for.” -Hebrews 11:1-2 (The Passion Translation)

I end today with a few words of wisdom from Solomon about having confidence and trusting in our Redeemer:

“Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,
and He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way].” -Proverbs 3:5-6 (AMP)

“We operate by faith, which means that we have confidence in what God says, whether we fully understand it or not.” ~Aiden Wilson Tozer

My friend, put your trust and confidence in the One who is your Savior, Deliverer, your Redeemer, and your God. There is only one God, and Jehovah is His name. He is Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, and no one else can take His place. It is time to realize that He alone can help us and save us.

“Faith is the sold, unshakable confidence in God which is built upon assurance that He is faithful to His promises.” ~Dr. David Jeremiah

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I am putting my hope and trust in you. I am confident that you, the One who is over all things, is able to help me, even deliver me. My faith is in you, even though I cannot see the answers to my prayers, I know that you are already working on my behalf. You have promised that your intentions for me are for good, not evil. I believe this to be true. Lord, I am trusting you, only you.

Humbled – Isaiah 47:2-3

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 47:2-3 (NIV)

“Take millstones and grind flour; take off your veil. Lift up your skirts, bare your legs, and wade through the streams. Your nakedness will be exposed and your shame uncovered. I will take vengeance; I will spare no one.”

Isaiah 47:2-3 (MSG)

“Get a job, any old job: clean gutters, scrub toilets. Pawn your gowns and scarves, put on your working pants—the party’s over. Your nude body will be on public display, exposed to vulgar taunts. It’s vengeance time, and I’m taking vengeance. No one gets let off the hook.”

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“Take millstones [as a female slave does] and grind meal; remove your veil, strip off the skirt, uncover the leg, cross the rivers [at the command of your captors]. Your nakedness will be uncovered, your shame will also be exposed; I will take vengeance and will spare no man.” -AMPLIFIED

“Pride is the reason for Babylon’s downfall. God’s desire was to use Babylon to punish Israel, but Babylon has gone beyond the limits God set and has acted with unnecessary cruelty. Proud of the place of honor she has gained among the nations, she acts as if she is God. Therefore, God will punish her. She thinks she is unconquerable, but God will suddenly destroy her.” ~Donald Flemming (Bridgeway Bible Commentary)

Yesterday we learned Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, was going to bring His judgement against Babylon, because of its pride. We learned that this once great queenly nation would be reduced to the role of a slave. God’s Message to her:

“Get down from your throne and sit in the dust, O Miss Babylon! Sit on the ground where you belong,
    not on a throne, O Miss Chaldea! For you will never be described again as ‘delicate and dainty.’” -Isaiah 47:1 (The Passion Translation)

God’s Message of judgement against Babylon continues in our text today. Remember, pride was the reason for Babylon’s downfall.

“And with those delicate fingers grab the heavy millstones and grind the grain. Take off your lacy veil, lift your skirt, bare your legs, and cross the mud and muck of the river on foot like any other slave.
Everyone will see you naked; your humiliation will be most public. I intend to make you pay, and no one will interfere.” -(VOICE)

This once delicate and dainty queen will be humbled and humiliated, reduced from her high station, to the role of a slave. We find this once dignified and illustrious leader, who had been waited on hand and foot, never doing menial jobs, now down on her knees grinding grain between two heavy millstones. (Her once flawless hands will now become calloused and rough. Her fingernails, which were once beautiful, will be broken and damaged.)

The next directive given, is for the queen to remover her veil. The Babylonian culture ideas for women were much like Middle Eastern cultures today. A woman kept her face covered, unless she was a loose woman, or a harlot. The following instructions give further evidence of how low Babylon will fall, for she is ordered to strip off her robes. Naked, she will be exposed for what she truly is, and she will be publicly humiliated and shamed.

The final words in this text, spoken by Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, deliver His judgement against Babylon. “I will take vengeance and let no one intercede for you.” Babylon will pay for its proud, haughty spirit. Remember:

“Pride ·leads to destruction [comes before a disaster];
·a proud attitude brings ruin [pride comes before a fall].” -Proverbs 16:18 (Expanded Bible)

God has a problem with man’s pride. If man chooses to walk in pride, not in humility, he will be humbled.

“Take heavy millstones and grind the corn; remove your veil; strip off your robe; expose yourself to public view. You shall be in nakedness and shame. I will take vengeance upon you and will not repent.” -(TLB)

“In the ancient world, people regarded nakedness as a shame because it left them open to the gaze of others, and so rendered them defenseless. People seen naked were often taken advantage of. Thus to be uncovered was to be shamefully exposed. Babylon had regarded herself as someone special and superior, but now it would become clear that she was just like every other nation. God promised to take vengeance on Babylon for exalting herself to a place that He alone deserves. He would not spare anyone deserving humiliation.” ~Thomas Constable

We have already addressed another prophecy against Babylon that Isaiah had given. Isaiah had this word from the Lord:

“For I will stir up the Medes against Babylon, and no amount of silver or gold will buy them off. The attacking armies will have no mercy on the young people of Babylon or the babies or the children. And so Babylon, the most glorious of kingdoms, the flower of Chaldean culture, will be as utterly destroyed as Sodom and Gomorrah were when God sent fire from heaven; Babylon will never rise again. Generation after generation will come and go, but the land will never again be lived in. The nomads will not even camp there. The shepherds won’t let their sheep stay overnight. The wild animals of the desert will make it their home. The houses will be haunted by howling creatures. Ostriches will live there, and the demons will come there to dance. Hyenas and jackals will den within the palaces. Babylon’s days are numbered; her time of doom will soon be here.” -Isaiah 13:17-22 (TLB)

Jeremiah also records a prophecy that was given to him from God. This prophecy foretold what would happen to Babylon, and all because of its pride. Judgement was certainly coming:

“The Lord says: I will stir up a destroyer against Babylon, against that whole land of the Chaldeans, and destroy it. Winnowers shall come and winnow her and blow her away; they shall come from every side to rise against her in her day of trouble.  The arrows of the enemy shall strike down the bowmen of Babylon and pierce her warriors in their coats of mail. No one shall be spared; both young and old alike shall be destroyed. They shall fall down slain in the land of the Chaldeans, slashed to death in her streets. For the Lord Almighty has not forsaken Israel and Judah. He is still their God, but the land of the Chaldeans is filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel. Flee from Babylon! Save yourselves! Don’t get trapped! If you stay, you will be destroyed when God takes his vengeance on all of Babylon’s sins. Babylon has been as a gold cup in the Lord’s hands, a cup from which he made the whole earth drink and go mad. But now, suddenly Babylon too has fallen. Weep for her; give her medicine; perhaps she can yet be healed.” -Jeremiah 51:1-8 (TLB)

Solomon taught us that if we were wise, we would hate evil, including pride. Take note:

“If you respect the Lord, you also will hate evil.
    It is wise to hate pride and bragging, evil ways and lies.” -Proverbs 8:13 (ICB)

“In our proud love affair with ourselves we pour contempt, whether we know it or not, on the worth of God’s glory. As our pride pours contempt upon God’s glory, His righteousness obliges Him to pour wrath upon our pride.”  ~John Piper

My friend, let us be careful that we too do not fall into the sin of pride. It is an easy thing to do, thinking we have done great things in our own strength and power. Once we start down that road, we are headed towards disaster, and humiliation. Respect God. Give all glory, honor and praise to Him. For without Him, we would be nothing.

  “Pride is a barrier to all spiritual progress.” ~Harry Ironside

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I lay down my pride. I realize that I am nothing without you. I see that my foolish pride is a barrier in our relationship, and in any spiritual growth that want to see in me. I am sorry, Lord, please forgive me. I desire to live humbly before you, my Lord. May I learn to have the same attitude of Jesus, who lived in humility before you. He gave up His rights, to live in obedience to His Father. I too, give up all my rights, my aspirations, so that you will be glorified in my life. I must decrease, so that you can increase. Have your way in me, dear Lord.

The Proud Will be Humbled-Isaiah 47:1

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 47:1 (NIV)

“Go down, sit in the dust, Virgin Daughter Babylon; sit on the ground without a throne, queen city of the Babylonians. No more will you be called tender or delicate.”

Isaiah 47:1 (MSG)

“Get off your high horse and sit in the dirt, virgin daughter of Babylon. No more throne for you—sit on the ground, daughter of the Chaldeans. Nobody will be calling you ‘charming’ and ‘alluring’ anymore. Get used to it.”

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“Come down and sit in the dust, O virgin daughter of Babylon; sit on the ground [in abject humiliation]; there is no throne for you, O daughter of the Chaldeans, for you will no longer be called tender and delicate.” -AMPLIFIED

 “Whatever makes us feel superior to other people, whatever tempts us to convey a sense of superiority that is the gravity of our sinful nature, not grace.” ~Philip Yancey

Chapter 46 closed out with this Message to Israel:

“Listen to me, you stubborn ones who are far from righteousness.
I am bringing my righteousness closer to you; it is not far off.
     My deliverance will not be delayed, for I will set my salvation in Zion for Israel my glory!” -Isaiah 46:12-13 (The Passion Translation)

Israel was reminded that God’s will would be done because He is Sovereign. As we begin chapter 47, we will immediately notice that the whole chapter is directed towards Babylon, and its great fall. Babylon is characterized as a queen, beautiful and vain, pampered and spoiled, who is going to suddenly be reduced to the lowest state possible, a slave.

“The bold image of a rich, frivolous and sensual young woman who, as a prisoner, is doomed to the despicable state of a slave and in every respect is treated like a Near-Eastern slave woman.” ~Harry  Bultema

“Eternal One: Ah, pretty virgin daughter, Miss Babylon, come down and sit in the dust. Sit on the ground where you belong: your throne is no more, daughter of the Chaldeans, no longer all dainty, delicate.” -(VOICE)

The Almighty God, the Eternal One, speaking through His prophet Isaiah, has a Message for Babylon, that proud nation that would one day conquer Israel. His Message begins with an invitation:

“Oh my beautiful daughter Babylon, come, sit in the dust. No longer will you sit on a throne, for the dust is where you belong. Those days of pomp and circumstance are over for you. No longer will you be considered tender and delicate; those days are over. “Nobody will be calling you ‘charming’ and ‘alluring’ anymore.” (MSG) There is going to be a big change in your life.”

We will see when we get into verses 2-3 that this beautiful, queen, will begin to act very unlady-like, because of the change in her station in life. Take a look a good look at what God foretells she will become:

“Take off your pretty veil;
    take two millstones and grind grain.
    Lift your skirt, bare your legs, and wade through the rivers.
Your humiliating nakedness will be uncovered,
    your shame exposed and seen by all.
     I will take vengeance and let no one intercede for you.” -Isaiah 47:2-3 (The Passion Translation)

Note: The Chaldeans are mentioned in our text. They were a tribe or people who lived in the southern part of Babylon in an area alongside the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. They were an influential and greatly educated group of people, who had considerable influence on the Babylonian kingdom. 

We will see over the coming days that the once proud nation of Babylon will be humbled. In her arrogance and pride, Babylon thought that she was invincible, but Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, will bring her low.

“O Babylon, the unconquered, come sit in the dust; for your days of glory, pomp, and honor are ended. O daughter of Chaldea, never again will you be the lovely princess, tender and delicate.” -(TLB)

“Come down and sit in the dust: Isaiah pictures proud Babylon as a humiliated woman, who shall no more be called tender and delicate.” ~David Guzik

The root of the problem that Babylon had was pride. She failed to understand that it was Jehovah who allowed her to sit on the throne and rule. She was short-sighted in grasping the fact that it was He how allowed Israel to come under her dominion, in order to turn their hearts back to Him.

Pride causes a great deal of problems for a lot of people. Scripture has much to teach us about the sin of pride.

From Solomon we learn:

“When pride comes, shame is not far behind, but wisdom accompanies those who are humble.” -Proverbs 11:2 (VOICE)

And this:

“Lift yourself up with pride and you will soon be brought low,
    but a meek and humble spirit will add to your honor.” -Proverbs 29:23 (The Passion Translation)

In the New Testament, we find James warning believers against the sin of pride:

“But He gives us more and more grace [through the power of the Holy Spirit to defy sin and live an obedient life that reflects both our faith and our gratitude for our salvation]. Therefore, it says, “God is opposed to the proud and haughty, but [continually] gives [the gift of] grace to the humble [who turn away from self-righteousness].” -James 4:6 (AMP)

Paul too warns against pride. To the Galatians he wrote:

“If you think you are somebody too important to stoop down to help another (when really you are not), you are living in deception. Let everyone be devoted to fulfill the work God has given them to do with excellence, and their joy will be in doing what’s right and being themselves, and not in being affirmed by others.” -Galatians 6:3-4 (The Passion Translation)

Even John, in his first epistle warns us about pride in this way:

“Don’t fall in love with this corrupt world or worship the things it can offer. Those who love its corrupt ways don’t have the Father’s love living within them. All the things the world can offer to you—the allure of pleasure, the passion to have things, and the pompous sense of superiority—do not come from the Father. These are the rotten fruits of this world. This corrupt world is already wasting away, as are its selfish desires. But the person really doing God’s will—that person will never cease to be.” -1 John 2:15-17 (VOICE)

“A proud man is always looking down on things and people; and, of course, as long as you’re looking down, you can’t see something that’s above you.” ~C.S. Lewis

My friend, the proud will be humbled, God has said so, and His Word is true. We need to take to heart something that Peter wrote in his first epistle:

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” -1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)

“No matter how dear you are to God, if pride is harbored in your spirit, He will whip it out of you. They that go up in their own estimation must come down again by His discipline.” ~Charles Spurgeon

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I ask that you forgive my foolish pride. I have nothing to be proud of, for everything that I am is because of you. Every milestone I have accomplished is only because of your goodness. Every achievement I have reached is because you have given me the talents and abilities to do so. I am nothing without you, Lord, I acknowledge this as truth. I humbly ask that you accept my life and my accomplishments as an offering to you. Everything that I am, and ever hope to be, I give it all to you. To you be all glory, honor and praise, for you alone are worthy. May my life be my tribute to the One who made it all possible. I love you, Lord.

God’s Will Be Done – Isaiah 46:12-13

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 46:12-13 (NIV)

“Listen to me, you stubborn-hearted, you who are now far from my righteousness. I am bringing my righteousness near, it is not far away; and my salvation will not be delayed. I will grant salvation to Zion, my splendor to Israel.”

Isaiah 46:12-13 (MSG)

“Now listen to me: You’re a hardheaded bunch and hard to help. I’m ready to help you right now. Deliverance is not a long-range plan. Salvation isn’t on hold. I’m putting salvation to work in Zion now, and glory in Israel.”

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“Listen to Me, you stiff-necked people, you who are far from righteousness (right standing with God). I bring near My righteousness [in the salvation of Israel], it is not far away; and My salvation will not delay. and I will grant salvation in Zion, and My glory for Israel.” -AMPLIFIED

“My salvation shall not linger: God’s people need to remember that God’s timing is always precise and wise. When we are stubborn-hearted we need to listen to the LORD and remember He never delays and is never late. God always has His deliverer, and always knows exactly when to bring His deliverance.” ~David Guzik

Yesterday’s text reminded us that Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, is also the Omniscient One. He alone knows the beginning from the end. In fact, He alone knows all things.

“I declare from the beginning how it will end
    and foretell from the start what has not yet happened.
    I decree that my purpose will stand,
    and I will fulfill my every plan. I called that bird of prey Cyrus, swooping in from the east;
    from a distant land he came, the man of my purpose.
    I have spoken, and yes, I will bring it to pass.
    I have formed my plan, and yes, I will do it.” -Isaiah 46:10-11 (The Passion Translation)

God has foretold of the coming of Cyrus, the one He has chosen to deliver His people.

“Listen closely, you strong-willed people who have veered far from the right path. It won’t be long until I make things right; My salvation is getting closer and closer; it won’t be delayed. I am ready to rescue Zion, My chosen place, and display My beauty and splendor to Israel, My chosen people.” -(VOICE)

We find God calling Israel out on their stubbornness, and unrighteousness, this was not the first time either. Their stubborn insistence on worshiping and relying on a hunk of wood to deliver them (idols), has gotten them into a trouble once again. Their relationship with God was non-existent, yet He has reminded them who they are, children of the Most High. He has encouraged them to “remember” what He has done for them in the past. He has reminded them that He, the Omniscient One, knows exactly what will happen in the future. And He was declaring it would be deliverance.

God said to the people of Israel:

“I am bringing my righteousness closer to you; it is not far off. My deliverance will not be delayed,
    for I will set my salvation in Zion for Israel my glory!” -(The Passion Translation)

God will do what needs to be done, including bringing salvation to His people, and restoring them, for Israel was/is His glory. Remember, God will accomplish His plans:

“Eternal One: My intentions are not always yours,
        and I do not go about things as you do.
My thoughts and My ways are above and beyond you,
        just as heaven is far from your reach here on earth.
For as rain and snow can’t go back once they’ve fallen,
        but soak into the ground
    And nourish the plants that grow,
        providing seed to the farmer and bread for the hungry,
So it is when I declare something.
        My word will go out and not return to Me empty,
    But it will do what I wanted;
        it will accomplish what I determined.” -Isaiah 55:8-11 (VOICE)

“Listen to me, you stubborn, evil men! For I am offering you my deliverance; not in the distant future, but right now! I am ready to save you, and I will restore Jerusalem and Israel, who is my glory.” -(TLB)

In the past God had given Israel a choice: life and good, or death and evil. But we find Him encouraging them to choose life:

“Listen closely, I have set before you today life and prosperity (good), and death and adversity (evil); in that I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk [that is, to live each and every day] in His ways and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His judgments (precepts), so that you will live and multiply, and that the Lord your God will bless you in the land which you are entering to possess.” -Deuteronomy 30:15-16 (AMP)

Let us take to heart the words of wisdom that Solomon taught to his son, and follow his advice:

“Trust the Lord with all your heart. Don’t depend on your own understanding.
Remember the Lord in everything you do. And he will give you success. Don’t depend on your own wisdom. Respect the Lord and refuse to do wrong.
Then your body will be healthy. And your bones will be strong. Honor the Lord by giving him part of your wealth. Give him the firstfruits from all your crops.
Then your barns will be full. And your wine barrels will overflow with new wine. My child, do not reject the Lord’s discipline. And don’t become angry when he corrects you.
The Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects the child that he likes.” -Proverbs 3:5-12 (ICB)

And may we pray the way that Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

“‘Our Beloved Father, dwelling in the heavenly realms, may the glory of your name
    be the center on which our lives turn. Manifest your kingdom realm,
    and cause your every purpose to be fulfilled on earth, just as it is in heaven.
We acknowledge you as our Provider of all we need each day.
Forgive us the wrongs we have done as we ourselves release forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Rescue us every time we face tribulation and set us free from evil.
    For you are the King who rules with power and glory forever. Amen.’” -Matthew 6:9-13 (The Passion Translation)

Let us be careful that we are not hard-hearted and stubborn. Instead, let us have the same attitude that Jesus had when He prayed:

“Father, if You are willing, take this cup away from Me. Yet not My will, but Your will, be done.” -Luke 22:42 (VOICE)

The Apostle Paul reminds us to think of ourselves in humility. In other words, God’s will should take preeminence over ours. Paul, speaking to the Philippians, said:

“Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion. Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.” -Philippians 2:5-11 (MSG)

“Will we see our greatest hope in the sovereignty of God, or will we insist there is a better one?” ~John Piper

My friend, how will you choose today? Will you insist on doing things your own way? I caution you; this way will lead to strife between you and God. Or, will you pray, like Jesus did, “Lord, may your will be done in my life.” This attitude will lead to a life of blessing. Choose well.

“God was giving them a choice. God wanted his people to enjoy the bounty of the Promised Land. But he didn’t make them accept it. The choice was theirs. This is a picture of salvation—of coming out of slavery to sin into freedom in Christ. In order to enjoy life in the Promised Land, the Israelites had to choose to obey God. You, too, have to choose whether you’ll accept God’s salvation and the good things he’s planned for you. God could have made you a puppet, but he didn’t. He gives you the ability to choose. If you choose poorly, that choice is your greatest curse. If you choose wisely, it’s your greatest blessing. Today God gives you a choice between life—choosing salvation and his path—or death. Which path will you choose?” ~Rick Warren

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, forgive me, I pray, for all of those times that I have stubbornly insisted on doing things my way, and not yours. I understand that that was wrong of me, and I was sinning. I humbly ask that you renew within my heart a right spirit. I pray that your will be done in my life, for I know that whatever you have planned for my life is good. Please, help me to have the attitude of your Son, Jesus, who was willing to even go to the cross in obedience to YOU. I may not know what life holds for me, Lord, but you do. You are working all things out for good. Help me to trust you, Lord. I choose to humbly submit to your will in my life. Have your way in me, Lord.

God Knows – Isaiah 46:10-11

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 46:10-11 (NIV)

“I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’ From the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a man to fulfill my purpose. What I have said, that I will bring about; what I have planned, that I will do.”

Isaiah 46:10-11 (MSG)

“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,’ Calling that eagle, Cyrus, out of the east, from a far country the man I chose to help me. I’ve said it, and I’ll most certainly do it. I’ve planned it, so it’s as good as done.”

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“Declaring the end and the result from the beginning, and from ancient times the things which have not [yet] been done, saying, ‘My purpose will be established, and I will do all that pleases Me and fulfills My purpose,’ Calling a bird of prey from the east, from a far country, the man (Cyrus) of My purpose. Truly I have spoken; truly I will bring it to pass. I have planned it, be assured I will do it.” -AMPLIFIED

“God had throughout history predicted how history would unfold, including things that had not happened previously. His revelations were in harmony with His purpose to carry out His beneficial will for humankind. Most recently He had predicted Cyrus, who would descend on Babylon like an eagle on a rabbit. His audience could count on this prediction coming to pass, because it was just the latest example of what He had done since the beginning.” ~Thomas Constable

In yesterday’s passage, we found God appealing to Israel to “remember” their past. Most importantly, remember what He, Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, had miraculously done for them, and what He had told them.

“Keep this in mind and don’t forget it!
    Take this to heart, you rebels!
Remember the miracles of long ago.
    Acknowledge that I am God, and there is no other.
    I am God, and there is none like me.” -Isaiah 46:8-9 (The Passion Translation)

In today’s passage, God’s Message to Israel continues. In today’s portion, we find God reminding Israel that only He, the Omniscient One, knows what will happen. He reminds them that what He has planned and declared, will come to pass.

“From the beginning I declare how things will end; from times long past, I tell what is yet to be, saying: “My intentions will come to pass.  I will make things happen as I determine they should.” I am the one who called Cyrus, the bird of prey from the east; from a land far away I summoned him to do what I intend. My word went out, and I will see it done. My plan has been made, and I will see it through.” -(VOICE)

God alone has the ability of foretelling accurately the course of future events. Only He can declare the end from the beginning. This argument is one to which God appeals to as proof that he alone is the One, True God, for no other “god” has ever foretold of future events and had them come to pass.

God reminds Israel that He has a purpose and a plan in all that is happening in their lives. In fact, He has already prepared Cyrus to be their deliverer from Babylon. (Remember, this prophecy was written over 150 years before Cyrus was even born.)

“Sometime around the year 700 BC, the prophet Isaiah gave an amazing prophecy, in which he stated that God would use someone named Cyrus to deliver His people from captivity.  This was fulfilled in 536 BC, perhaps 150-160 years later, when Cyrus the Great of Persia invaded Babylon, took the city, and released the Jews who had been taken captive by the Babylonians, with instructions to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple.” ~Jon Gleason

When God speaks, He accomplishes what He says He will do. You can always count on that fact.

“… who can tell you what is going to happen. All I say will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish. I will call that swift bird of prey from the east—that man Cyrus from far away. And he will come and do my bidding. I have said I would do it and I will.” -(TLB)

“The essential point is that God’s people must remember this about the LORD – that He knows the end from the beginning and is in control over all things. When we remember this, we will show ourselves men. We can have tremendous courage in our God when we understand and remember who He is and what He does.” ~David Guzik

Further along in the book of Isaiah we find God telling Israel that He does not think the way that we think, nor are His ways our ways. He also tells them that what He says will come to pass, for His Word will not return void. Here is His Message to them:

“For my thoughts about mercy are not like your thoughts, and my ways are different from yours.
As high as the heavens are above the earth, so my ways and my thoughts are higher than yours.
As the snow and rain that fall from heaven do not return until they have accomplished their purpose,
    soaking the earth and causing it to sprout with new life, providing seed to sow and bread to eat.
So also will be the word that I speak; it does not return to me unfulfilled.
     My word performs my purpose and fulfills the mission I sent it out to accomplish.” -Isaiah 55:8-11 (The Passion Translation)

Jeremiah reminds us, in the book that he wrote, that nothing is too difficult for God.

“Adonai, God! You made heaven and earth by your great power and outstretched arm; nothing is too hard for you.” -Jeremiah 32:17 (Complete Jewish Bible)

The author of Psalm 145 reminds us of this truth that we need to take to heart:

“How great is our God!
    There’s absolutely nothing his power cannot accomplish,
    and he has infinite understanding of everything.” -Psalm 147:5 (The Passion Translation)

“God Is Omnipotent, Omnipresent, and Omniscient; so why do we struggle to trust him when our lives get chaotic?” ~Jack Wellman

My friend, it may seem that your life is in a state of chaos at the moment, at least to you. But God has a purpose and a plan, never forget that. Remember this, He is Sovereign and Omniscient. He has a purpose and a plan for every life. What He has said will happen, and His intentions are for good, not evil. Will you trust Him in the process?

“God is completely sovereign. God is infinite in wisdom. God is perfect in love. God in His love always wills what is best for us. In His wisdom He always knows what is best, and in His sovereignty, He has the power to bring it about.” ~Jeff Bridges

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, help me to grasp and understand that you are always in control, for you alone are Sovereign, and you alone are Omniscient. What you say will happen, your plans, will come to pass, in your time and in your way. Remind me that there are no surprises for you, for you know the beginning and the end of every life. Forgive me for those times that I have not trusted you and your plans. In the chaos of this life, remind me that you know everything, and what you have foretold about my life, will indeed come to pass. Thank you, Lord.

REMEMBER – Isaiah 46:8-9

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 46:8-9 (NIV)

“Remember this, keep it in mind, take it to heart, you rebels. Remember the former things, those of long ago;  I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.”

Isaiah 46:8-9 (MSG)

“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—”

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“Remember this, and take courage; take it to heart, you rebellious and disloyal people. Remember [carefully] the former things [which I did] from ages past; for I am God, and there is no one else; I am God, and there is no one like Me…” -AMPLIFIED

“We have all forgot more than we remember.” ~Thomas Fuller

The focus of yesterday’s text was on the foolishness of worshiping an idol that was mad by a man, and needed to be carried around, even set up by human hands. Whereas, we were reminded, Jehovah, Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, firmly and safely carries His children in His arms, not the other way around.

“The wealthy pour out their gold, weigh out their silver in the scales,
    and hire a goldsmith who crafts it into a “god.” Then they bow down before it to worship it.
They lift it up to their shoulders and have to carry it. They set it on a stand, and there it sits,
    unable to move from its place. When someone cries out to it,
    it never answers nor saves anyone from trouble.” -Isaiah 46:6-7 (The Passion Translation)

We will see in today’s text an appeal, a call for the people of Israel to remember who their God truly is.

REMEMBER: To call to mind, reflect upon, to recognize and recall, to learn from and to commemorate.

“Remember that—and don’t be tempted to conform! Think about it, you rebels. Remember the old days. For I am God; there is no other. I am God; there are no other gods like Me.” -(VOICE)

Once again, we need to realize that this was God speaking to His people, Israel. God spoke this Message through His servant Isaiah, but this Message was directly from God. The essence of this particular part of God’s Message was, “REMEMBER“.

God’s Message:

“DO NOT forget what I have done for you in the past! Recall all the miracles that I have done for you in the past. Do not be tempted to conform to the ways of the world. Remember, what I have told you would happen if you chose to worship other gods. Call to memory what I foretold would happen, and my promise to you:

“If I shut up the heavens so that no rain falls, or if I command locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence and plague among My people, and My people, who are called by My Name, humble themselves, and pray and seek (crave, require as a necessity) My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear [them] from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer offered in this place.” -2 Chronicles 7:13-15 (AMP)

Remember, God knows the beginning and the end of every situation, every circumstance. There are no surprises for Him, He is Omniscient, He knows everything, and He sees it all quite clearly too. We too need to keep this fact at the forefront of our minds, always.

“Don’t forget this, O guilty ones. And don’t forget the many times I clearly told you what was going to happen in the future. For I am God—I only—and there is no other like me…” -(TLB)

“Again, appealing to them to put off their idolatry and to come out of this blindness that is caused by blindness and materialism…Review? Why? Because in the past people were idol worshippers and they came to grief. And we ought not to make the same mistakes, having the scriptures; having the word of God from those ancient times. Also, when a prophet prophesies, it comes to pass and one of the things that the servant prophesies is the destruction of Babylon, the imminent destruction of Babylon and all idol makers. Just as those ancient prophesies come to pass so the ones that the servant speak shall also come to pass. “I am God, there is none other, I am divine, nothing resembles me.” ~Avraham Gileadi

Israel needed to be reminded that their God was faithful. He would never forget them, they needed to never forget Him. Isaiah had already given them this Message:

“Remember these things, O Jacob. Take it seriously, Israel, that you’re my servant.
I made you, shaped you: You’re my servant. O Israel, I’ll never forget you.
I’ve wiped the slate of all your wrongdoings. There’s nothing left of your sins.
Come back to me, come back. I’ve redeemed you.” -Isaiah 44:21 (MSG)

“We may sometimes think we’re a forgotten commodity, but God remembers every one of us who serve Him.” ~Shelton Smith

How often we too forget what God has done for us in the past. The Apostle Paul reminds the Ephesians to remember where they have come from and what Christ has done for them:

“Remember that in those days you were living utterly apart from Christ; you were enemies of God’s children, and he had promised you no help. You were lost, without God, without hope. But now you belong to Christ Jesus, and though you once were far away from God, now you have been brought very near to him because of what Jesus Christ has done for you with his blood.” -Ephesians 2:12-13 (TLB)

John, in his first epistle, reminds us that if we have been united with Christ, that we need to remember whose we are, and we should be living faithfully for Him. John writes:

“How can we be sure that He truly lives in us and that we truly live in Him? By one fact: He has given us His Spirit. We have watched what God has done, and we stand ready to provide eyewitness testimonies to the reality that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. If anyone unites with our confession that Jesus is God’s own Son, then God truly lives in that person and that person lives in God. We have experienced and we have entrusted our lives to the love of God in us. God is love. Anyone who lives faithfully in love also lives faithfully in God, and God lives in him.” -1 John 4:13-16 (VOICE)

“Remember this, and show yourselves men: We can gain the courage of men when we remember the things God tells us to remember. How much defeat we suffer in the Christian life through simply forgetting.” ~David Guzik

My friend, remember who your God is, He is the Omnipotent One. He knows not only your beginning, but your end as well. He is the same, yesterday, today and forever. He is Faithful and True, and His power is still able to do for you today what He did for others in the past. Do you need a miracle in your life today? Trust Him to bring it to pass. He alone is God, and there is no other.

“It is impossible for that man to despair who remembers that his Helper is omnipotent.” ~Jeremy Taylor

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, I remember where you have brought me from, and all that you have brought me through. You are Faithful and True. You do not change, Lord; your power has not lessened. When I read of the miracles you have done for others, I know you can do them for me too. After all, you alone are the Omnipotent One, you know and were with me in my beginning, and you will continue to walk with me till my end. Lord, I am trusting you. When fear tries to overwhelm my mind, please allow your Holy Spirit to bring to my remembrance all that you have done for me personally in the past. Remind me that you will never leave me or forsake me. I am trusting you, Lord. I will remember. ❤

This is Our God – Isaiah 46:6-7

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 46:6-7

“Some pour out gold from their bags and weigh out silver on the scales; they hire a goldsmith to make it into a god, and they bow down and worship it. They lift it to their shoulders and carry it; they set it up in its place, and there it stands. From that spot it cannot move. Even though someone cries out to it, it cannot answer; it cannot save them from their troubles.”

Isaiah 46:6-7 (MSG)

“People with a lot of money hire craftsmen to make them gods. The artisan delivers the god, and they kneel and worship it! They carry it around in holy parades, then take it home and put it on a shelf. And there it sits, day in and day out, a dependable god, always right where you put it. Say anything you want to it, it never talks back. Of course, it never does anything either!”

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“Those who lavish gold from the bag and weigh out silver on the scales hire a goldsmith, and he makes it into a god; they bow down, indeed they worship it. They lift it on their shoulders [in religious processions or into battle] and carry it; they set it in its place and there it remains standing. It cannot move from its place. Even if one cries to it [for help], the idol cannot answer; it cannot save him from his distress.” -AMPLIFIED

“They lavish gold out of the bag: Much money and attention are given to the production and care of our idols. Yet, though one cries out to it, yet it cannot answer nor save him out of his trouble. Isaiah again exposes the ironic folly of idolatry.” ~David Guzik

In yesterday’s text we were reminded that nothing compares to Adonai, our God. Nothing!

“To whom can you compare me, the incomparable God?
    Have you found someone else like me?” -Isaiah 46:5 (The Passion Translation)

In today’s passage we find the comparison continues. It should be noted, Yahweh points out that the worshiper of an idol carries their god, while Jehovah, the One True God, carries His children safely in His arms, all of their days. Remember verses 3 and 4:

“Listen to me, O Jacob’s tribes, all the remnant of Israel. You never had to carry me, but I have carried you from birth. I supported you from the moment you left the womb. Even as you grow old and your hair turns gray, I’ll keep carrying you! I am your Maker and your Caregiver. I will carry you and be your Savior.” -Isaiah 46:3-4 (The Passion Translation)

“They shall carry them on the shoulder. The picture is still more heightened by the description contained in this verse; for, since the idols have no feeling of any kind, they who fly to them to ask assistance must be not only very stupid but very obstinate.” ~John Calvin

“What about those who use precious materials for gods—hiring artisans to carefully craft gold, silver, jewels, and exotic wood into a god—then they bow down and worship it! Their god is a mere object. They have to lug it around on their shoulders before they can stand it up in its proper place. It just sits there, unmoving until they pick it up again. It never speaks, never answers. It cannot help them, no matter how desperate they are.” -(VOICE)

Once again, we find God pointing out the ridiculousness of worshiping idols, those false gods. Once again, He draws our attention to how a man designs and produces these so-called “gods”. A man, that has been blessed by Yahweh, with gold and silver, takes what God has given him and squanders it. That man takes the very gift God gave him and takes it to an artisan who then forms it into a “god”. How foolish! Then, that man bows down and worship that so-called “god”. That man will even lift and carry that so-called “god” around on his shoulders, carrying it where he wishes it to go, placing it where he desires to be. For that “god” does not have the ability to even move. And when that man prays to that “god” it cannot even answer, never mind save him from his troubles. How foolish this man is who points at said idol and says, “This is my god.”

“Will you compare me with an idol made lavishly with silver and with gold? They hire a goldsmith to take your wealth and make a god from it! Then they fall down and worship it! They carry it around on their shoulders, and when they set it down, it stays there, for it cannot move! And when someone prays to it, there is no answer, for it cannot get him out of his trouble.” -(TLB)

“When they sit in a place, there it stands unable to budge from its spot. Though they cry to it for help, it does not answer. It cannot save them from trouble”. The Lord is not like that. He is not confined to any one spot or place. He’s not made by human hands; he’s above gold and silver, which he himself has made and created. When people cry to him, he answers and he saves them from trouble. If it wasn’t for Him they would all be wiped out by now.” ~Avraham Gileadi 

The Sons of Korah composed a beautiful song describing for us the awesomeness of Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty. In the NIV, the final verse says: “For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.” Here is the song in its entirety.

“There are so many reasons to describe God as wonderful! So many reasons to praise him with unlimited praise! Zion-City is his home; he lives on his holy mountain—high and glorious, joy-filled and favored.
    Zion-Mountain looms in the farthest reaches of the north, the city of our incomparable King!
This is his divine abode, an impenetrable citadel, for he is known to dwell in the highest place.
See how the mighty kings united to come against Zion, yet when they saw God manifest in front of their eyes, they were stunned.
    Trembling, they all fled away, gripped with fear. Seized with panic, they doubled up in frightful anguish,
    like a woman in the labor pains of childbirth.
Like a hurricane blowing and breaking the invading ships, God blows upon them and breaks them to pieces. We have heard about these wonders, and then we saw them with our own eyes. For this is the city of the Commander of Angel Armies, the city of our God, safe and secure forever!
Pause in his presence
Lord, as we worship you in your temple, we recall over and over your kindness to us and your unending love. The fame of your name echoes throughout the entire world, accompanied with praises.
    Your right hand is full of victory. So let the people of Zion rejoice with gladness;  let the daughters of praise leap for joy! For God will see to it that you are judged fairly.
Circle Zion; count her towers. Consider her walls, climb her palaces, and then go and tell the coming generation of the care and compassion of our God.
Yes, this is our God, our great God forever. He will lead us onward until the end, through all time, beyond death, and into eternity!” -Psalm 48 (The Passion Translation)

“Our God is abundant in love and steadfast in mercy. He saves us, not because we trust in a symbol, but because we trust in a Savior. -Max Lucado

My friend, how do you view God? Is He faithful and true? Is He loving and kind? Does He care for you, protect, provide, and strengthen you? Is He your All-In-All? I hope you can testify to these truths, for this is our God! He is the Loving Father who carries us, not the other way around.

“Satan is ever seeking to inject that poison into our hearts to distrust God’s goodness – especially in connection with his commandments. That is what really lies behind all evil, lusting and disobedience. A discontent with our position and portion, a craving from something which God has wisely held from us. Reject any suggestion that God is unduly severe with you. Resist with the utmost abhorrence anything that causes you to doubt God’s love and his lovingkindness toward you. Allow nothing to make you question the Father’s love for his child.” ~A.W. Pink

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, you are the One, True God, and there is no other. You are my loving Father, my Caring Friend, my Savior, and my Lord. No one or no thing can ever compare with you. You are abundant in love and mercy, rich in grace. You care deeply for your children, carrying them all of their days. You alone are the One that I will trust, for you are the only One who will walk with me through every moment of this life. You are my God. Thank you for always being there for me. I love you, Lord. ❤

Nothing Compares to Our God -Isaiah 46:5

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 46:5 (NIV)

“With whom will you compare me or count me equal? To whom will you liken me that we may be compared?“

Isaiah 46:5 (MSG)

“So to whom will you compare me, the Incomparable? Can you picture me without reducing me?”

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“To whom would you liken Me and make Me equal and compare Me, that we may be alike?” -AMPLIFIED

“All that we are so amazed by in this universe is compared to God as nothing.” ~John Piper

Within yesterday’s text we were told that Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, carries us throughout our whole life, from the moment of our conception, until the day that we die, God is not only our Caregiver, but our loving Father. Isaiah records for us this:

“Listen to me, O Jacob’s tribes, all the remnant of Israel.
You never had to carry me, but I have carried you from birth.
    I supported you from the moment you left the womb.
Even as you grow old and your hair turns gray,
    I’ll keep carrying you!
    I am your Maker and your Caregiver.
    I will carry you and be your Savior.” -Isaiah 46:3-4 (The Passion Translation)

I am reminded that there are so many things in our lives that compete with God. But I would remind you that nothing at all will ever compare to Him.

“Does anyone compare to Me? Can you find any likeness? Who or what might be My equal or even close to Me?” -(VOICE)

In our text the Eternal One asks a rhetorical question that should be familiar to us by now. For this is not the first time He has asked, “To whom can you liken me? To whom can you compare me?”

God asked this same rhetorical question, through Isaiah, back in chapter 40.

“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! 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. “So—who is like me? Who holds a candle to me?” says The Holy.” -Isaiah 40:18-26 (MSG)

God reminds Israel once again that He has no equal. No one, or no thing can ever fill that place in their lives that is meant for Him. We all have a God sized hole in our hearts that can only be filled by our Creator.

“With what in all of heaven and earth do I compare? Whom can you find who equals me?” -(TLB)

“There is no one like you, Adonai! You are great, and your name is great and mighty.” ~Jeremiah (Jeremiah 10:6 Complete Jewish Bible)

Moses, speaking from experience, was able to attest and testify that there is nothing that compared to God. Moses even wrote a song, and sang, expressing this very thought. Here is but a portion of that song:

“Are there any gods like you, Lord? No! There are no gods like you.
    You are wonderfully holy. You are amazingly powerful. You do great miracles.
You reached out with your right hand, and the earth swallowed our enemies.
You keep your loving promise. You lead the people you have saved.
With your strength you will guide them to your holy land.” -Exodus 15:11-13 (ICB)

Ethan, the Ezrahite, wrote a reflective psalm that contemplated this truth that nothing in this life could compare to Adonai. Here is just a portion of Ethan’s song:

“Can you hear it? Heaven is filled with your praises, O Lord! All the holy ones are praising you for your miracles. The sons of God are all praising you for your mighty wonders.
    We could search the skies forever and never find one like you. All the mighty angels could not be compared to you.
You are a God who is greatly to be feared as you preside over the council of holy ones.
    You are surrounded by trembling ones who are overwhelmed with fear and dread,
    stunned as they stand in awe of you! So awesome are you, O Yahweh, Lord God of Angel Armies!
    Where could we find anyone as glorious as you? Your faithfulness shines all around you!” -Psalm 89:5-8 (The Passion Translation)

So many things in this life try to distract us, even try to pull us away from God and His truth. But we need to stand firm and not let ourselves be misled by the fool’s gold of this life. James, in his book, warns us of this fact.

“Happy is the one who endures testing, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord promised to those who love Him. Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God”—for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He himself tempts no one. But each one is tempted when he is dragged away and enticed by his own desire. Then when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and when sin is full grown, it brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. By His will, He brought us forth by the word of truth, so that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all He created.” -James 1:12-18 (Tree of Life Version)

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

My friend, nothing in this life can compare to God, and nothing will ever be able to satisfy that deep longing in your soul but Him. He created each of us with a need for Him. And trying to fill that need with other things, or people will not bring us peace or contentment. Accept that fact that we all need the Creator, no one else will do. After all, He is our loving Father, and He wants what is best for us; a personal relationship with Him.

“God is unique. There is no other. Because of this, there is nothing or no one to whom God can be compared. Yet because of this, God can only be known by comparison. What a marvelous paradox! Because God is unlike all else, the only true sui generis, he can only be known by comparison to things we do know. We know God analogically. We know God through the comparisons reveled to us in his Word and in his world. Because God wants us to know him, he speaks to us in terms we can understand.” ~Brad Kelly

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, nothing in this world compares to you. You are the only One who can satisfy my soul, and fill my life with peace and joy, which is not contingent on my circumstance, but on my Savior. You are my Wonderful Counselor, my Mighty God, my Everlasting Father, and my Prince of Peace. You are my Savior and my Lord, and I realize that nothing compares to you, everything else is just fool’s gold. So, I choose you, Lord. You are the One I am wholly trusting.

Our Heavenly Father Carries Us -Isaiah 46:3-4

Growing with God: A daily devotional with Tonia Slimm.

Isaiah 46:3-4 (NIV)

“Listen to me, you descendants of Jacob, all the remnant of the people of Israel, you whom I have upheld since your birth, and have carried since you were born. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”

Isaiah 46:3-4 (MSG)

“Listen to me, family of Jacob, everyone that’s left of the family of Israel. I’ve been carrying you on my back from the day you were born, and I’ll keep on carrying you when you’re old. I’ll be there, bearing you when you’re old and gray. I’ve done it and will keep on doing it, carrying you on my back, saving you.”

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“Listen to Me,” [says the Lord], “O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, you who have been carried by Me from your birth and have been carried [in My arms] from the womb, even to your old age I am He, and even to your advanced old age I will carry you! I have made you, and I will carry you; be assured I will carry you and I will save you.” -AMPLIFIED

“And even to your old age I am he; and even to gray hairs will I carry you: {f} have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you. Seeing I have begotten you, I will nourish and preserve you forever.” ~Geneva Study Bible

In yesterday’s passage God, through Isaiah, compared for us the difference between idols and Jehovah. Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, declared that He would expose those false gods for what they were, and bring them low.

The gods of Babylon, Bel, and Nebo are bowed down and lowered to the ground.
    They haul away on ox carts their wobbling idols. They both stoop and bow down,
    and they are powerless to rescue their own images.
    There they go—carried off into captivity!” -Isaiah 46:1-2 (The Passion Translation)

“The gods of the nations must have looked rather odd riding on the backs of animals. Even gods of the once-feared Babylonians, Bel and Nebo, are nothing but dead weight.” ~VOICE footnote

In today’s text, we find Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, reminding Israel that He has been carrying them in His hands, even before they were born, and will continue to carry them, even into their old age.

“Eternal One: Listen, you who count yourselves among Jacob’s descendants, all the remnant of Israel. It is you, not I, who have been carried from before you were born. Indeed, when you were still in the womb, I was taking care of you. And when you are old, I will still be there, carrying you. When your limbs grow tired, your eyes are weak, and your hair a silvery gray, I will carry you as I always have. I will carry you and save you.” -(VOICE)

This Message is from God, so the reader is instructed to, “listen” or “pay close attention”. God says:

“Listen up, Israel. It was I who created you. In fact, I have been carrying you since before you were born. At no point did you ever have to carry me. From the day of your birth, I have taken care of you, carrying you in my arms. And I will do so throughout your whole lifetime, even when you are old. Why? Because you are my child. I made you, and I will take care of you. I am your Creator, your Maker and your Care-giver. Rest assured, I will carry you through every situation, for I am your also your Savior.”

“Listen to me, all Israel who are left; I have created you and cared for you since you were born. I will be your God through all your lifetime, yes, even when your hair is white with age. I made you and I will care for you. I will carry you along and be your Savior.” -(TLB)

 “The false gods represented by silent and dead idols must be carried; but God carries His people. He carried them from before their birth, and He promises to continue to carry them (even to gray hairs I will carry you!).” ~David Guzik

This passage is a reminder to us that Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, loves us and cares for us, each one, personally. It also paints for us a picture of our Heavenly Father, Papa, lovingly holding us in His arms and taking care of our every need. David testified to God’s Fatherly care of His children. David wrote:

“I was once inexperienced (immature), but now I’m old.
    Not once have I found a lover of God forsaken by him,
    nor have any of their children gone hungry.
 Instead, I’ve found the godly ones
    to be the generous ones who give freely to others.
    Their children are blessed and become a blessing.” -Psalm 37:25-26 (The Passion Translation)

God, speaking to Moses, reminded him that it was He who had protected and carried the people of Israel. Adonai reminded Moses in this way:

“Moses went up to God [on the mountain], and the Lord called to him from the mountain, saying, “Say this to the house of Jacob and tell the Israelites: ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings, and brought you to Myself. Now therefore, if you will in fact obey My voice and keep My covenant (agreement), then you shall be My own special possession and treasure from among all peoples [of the world], for all the earth is Mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation [set apart for My purpose].’ These are the words that you shall speak to the Israelites.” -Exodus 19:3-6 (AMP)

We see God reminding Israel in the book of Deuteronomy that it was He who had fought their battles, and carried them, just a father would carry a child. God told them: “So I told you, “Don’t be scared! Don’t be afraid of them! You won’t have to fight this battle yourselves; the Eternal your God, who always goes ahead of you, will fight for you just as He did in Egypt—you saw Him do it! And here in this wilderness, all along the route you’ve traveled until you reached this place, haven’t you seen the Eternal, your True God, carrying you the way a parent carries a child? But you still don’t trust the Eternal your God,  even though He always goes ahead of you as you travel and finds places for you to camp. In a pillar of fire by night and in a cloud by day, He always shows you the right way to go.” -Deuteronomy 1:29-33 (VOICE)

And again, later in the book of Deuteronomy we find God saying:

“God protected them in the howling wilderness
As though they were the apple of his eye.
He spreads his wings over them,
Even as an eagle overspreads her young.
She carries them upon her wings—
As does the Lord his people!” -Deuteronomy 32:10-11 (TLB)

Zephaniah reminds us of this promise that should fill our hearts with peace:

“The Lord your God is with you,
    the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
    in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
    but will rejoice over you with singing.” -Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” ~Isaiah (Isaiah 40:11 NIV)

My friend, our Heavenly Father has been carrying each of us from the very moment we were conceived. The day we were born, He was there, as well. And through all of life’s journey He can say He has been with us, even into our old age. He is the One we can always count on. He is the One who loves us with an everlasting love, and cares about what happens to us. And nothing can separate us from His love. Hallelujah!

“When the time comes for you to die, you need not be afraid, because death cannot separate you from God’s love.” ~Charles H. Spurgeon

My Prayer:

Adonai–Tzva’ot, God Almighty, thank you for being my constant companion, my Heavenly Father. The fact that your Word describes for me your fatherly care, holding me, carrying me, keeping me close to your heart, makes me feel not only loved, but well cared for. Thank you. These pictures of your tender care bless me, and remind me that I am loved, deeply. I am so blessed, Father, by your tender loving care. Please, bring these reminders to my mind when I am walking through those valleys that tend to be so overwhelming. Remind me that you are holding me tight, and singing over me. Thank you, Papa.