Let the Immanuel Factor Make the Difference
Rev. Enoch Thompson | December 11 2024 | Isaiah 8:11-15
KEY VERSE:
The Lord spoke to me with his strong hand upon me, warning me not to follow the way of this people. Isaiah 8:11 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
We are easily affected by the emotions and thinking patterns of people with whom we share company and space. But faith in God must lift the believer above the chilling fears that try to swallow all hope. God offers that kind of faith in His grace to hold us up when hopes are getting lost.
Though God had spoken to Isaiah, and he had shared the insights of God with the people, many were not as confident in God’s saving power from the impending Syria-Israel attack on Judah or the eventual Assyrian invasion on the North spilling over into the South. Is it possible that Isaiah himself was becoming exposed to their doubts and fears? God took the step to confirm His servant in his faith; He brought His strong hand upon Isaiah and spoke faith again into his spirit.
Rather than fear what other people feared, Isaiah and his disciples were to fear the Lord and be in alarm, only dreading what He is able to do to those who reject Him (Isaiah 8:13).
When we believe that God is with us (Immanuel) and truly fear Him, He will become for us a sanctuary, a place of security and safety, but for those who reject God, He becomes a stone to crush them (8:14).
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
There are too many frightening things around; keep your eyes on God with you, and fear only Him. Then, you will have nothing else to fear.
PRAYER:
Lord, I have heard and seen things that make my knees tremble and my heart melt like wax. But please place your strong hand on me and strengthen me in my faith in your presence with me. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: WARNING
The word warning in Isaiah 8:11 comes from the Hebrew root yasar (יָסַר), which means "to instruct," "discipline," or "admonish." It conveys the idea of corrective guidance aimed at steering someone toward the right path. In this context, God’s warning to Isaiah was firm and unmistakable, ensuring he did not follow the crowd's misguided ways or succumb to their fears.
This word highlights God's loving discipline, showing His desire to protect His people from harm by guiding them in His truth. It also underscores the responsibility of believers to heed divine warnings and stand firm in faith, even when surrounded by doubt and fear. Reflection God’s warnings are rooted in His love. Take them to heart, for they guide you to safety and strengthen your faith.
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