At least fifty-three “fourteeners” (14,000 foot mountains) are painted across the landscape of Colorado. I had the fortunate experience about ten years ago to live there and hike these beautiful behemoths. Although long and tedious, these mountains are worth the climb. By the time you reach the top, all that you see of the rolling clouds, sounds of animals, rushing rivers, and beautiful colors, overwhelm you. But even that is not comparable to the glory and greatness of God in Isaiah 40. The passage looks much like the last few chapters of Job. A prophecy is followed by details and rhetorical questions stated and asked by the author to its audience. Verse one details Jerusalem as his audience and a great promise to come is revealed: “..warfare has ended, that her iniquity has been removed, that she has received the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.” (v.2b) This day that comes will bring one that will pave the way for Jesus. He is John the Baptist. (v.3) The verse will be answered in Matthew 3:3, Mark 1:3; Luke 3:4-6, and John 1:23. All the gospels target the coming of John, but it doesn’t stop there. “Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all flesh will see it together, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” (v.5) The Savior will then come; he is described as a shepherd—one who would tend, care, gather, and gently lead. (vv.10-11) Then comes the details of the greatness and sovereignty of God. These series of rhetorical questions already have an answer, God. No idol will compare, no country will stand, no peoples will compare. (vv.12-20) Because of His great might not a star is missing, not a way is hidden, and injustice escape His notice. (vv.21-27) So, Isaiah encourages Judah, “Do not become weary or tired… He gives strength to the weary… Those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk around and not be weary.” (vv.28-31) What a magnificent picture of His grandeur. God will bring redemption to His people, recovery to the land, and restoration for all mankind. He does not withhold His glory, nor does He withhold His Son. His promises are everlasting! Where many passages before Isaiah 40 are more doom and gloom, recognize that this one is of His goodness and sovereignty. May the phrase “Trust in the Lord” take new meaning today! #godlylegacy “Our problems may stay, our circumstances may remain, but we know God is in control. We are focused on His adequacy, not our inadequacy.” –Charles Stanley
Posted on: Thu, 31 Oct 2013 13:41:22 +0000
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