August 29th, 2016
Isaiah 29:15-24(GNT)
God’s Word of Promise
Introduction
Isaiah 29:15-24: Today’s reading includes words of hope for Israel’s future. Sinners will be destroyed, and the people’s disgrace will be removed.
Today's Scripture: Isaiah 29:19
Poor and humble people will once again find the happiness which the LORD, the holy God of Israel, gives.
Today's Reading
Hope for the Future
15Those who try to hide their plans from the Lord are doomed! They carry out their schemes in secret and think no one will see them or know what they are doing.16 They turn everything upside down. Which is more important, the potter or the clay? Can something you have made say, “You didn't make me”? Or can it say, “You don't know what you are doing”?
17As the saying goes, before long the dense forest will become farmland, and the farmland will go back to forest.
18When that day comes, the deaf will be able to hear a book being read aloud, and the blind, who have been living in darkness, will open their eyes and see.19Poor and humble people will once again find the happiness which the Lord, the holy God of Israel, gives.20It will be the end of those who oppress others and show contempt for God. Every sinner will be destroyed.21God will destroy those who slander others, those who prevent the punishment of criminals, and those who tell lies to keep honest people from getting justice.
22So now the Lord, the God of Israel, who rescued Abraham from trouble, says, “My people, you will not be disgraced any longer, and your faces will no longer be pale with shame.23When you see the children that I will give you, then you will acknowledge that I am the holy God of Israel. You will honor me and stand in awe of me.24Foolish people will learn to understand, and those who are always grumbling will be glad to be taught.”
Reflect
What is the fate of those who hide their plans from the LORD and carry out their schemes in secret? After the time of judgment has passed, what will the LORD do to restore Israel? Where in the world is restoration needed today?
Pray
Holy God, I stand in awe of you. I acknowledge you as my God and praise your holy name. Help me to honor you today in all I do and say. Amen.
Prayer Concern
Nations devastated by war
Tomorrow's Reading
Isaiah 43:1-28: God promises to rescue his people.