READING: Isaiah 54-58
I’m reminded today of one reason why reading the Word of God is so important: God said of that Word, “It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it” (Isa 55:11). Just like the rain and the snow water the earth to bring forth its yield (Isa 55:10), the Word will do its work. That’s great news for all of us who base our lives on that Word. Regardless of what the world might say, we are not foolish to build on a foundation that will not fail.
So, the Word challenges me today as it intersects with my life. The words of an eighth-century BC prophet still strike my soul with questions and reflection:
- Do I ever live for that which really doesn’t matter? “Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy?” (Isa 55:2)
- Do I live in repentance, especially in my thoughts? “Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts” (Isa 55:7)
- Am I contrite and broken over my sin? “I [God] live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit” (Isa 57:15)
- Do I ever fast just so God sees me? “‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it?’” (Isa 58:3)
It’s easy, actually, to go through the motions of Christianity apart from interacting with the Word. When we read the Word, though, we put ourselves in a place for God to convict us, challenge us, and change us. It is that Word that reminds us that even when God judges us for our sin, He heals us, thus “creating praise on their [our] lips” (Isa 57:18-19).
Even those last words from the Word in the previous sentence make me want to sing. That’s just what the Word does — it accomplishes its goals!
ACTION STEPS:
- Use the above questions from the Word to evaluate your own life. Repent as needed. Thank God for victory.
- Challenge somebody else today to read God’s Word with you. His Word matters.
PRAYER: “God, thank You for guiding me through Your Word. Make me love that Word like never before.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Isaiah 59-63
