Welcome to the book of Isaiah! Before we even dive into the first few chapters, I’d love for you to consider something about this book. The book of Isaiah was written to the Israelites, and they didn’t have the knowledge that we have about Jesus, our Savior. So, as you’re reading this book, hold that Good News in your heart, and ponder what it may be like to read this not yet knowing about Jesus!
Isaiah is a prophet that has two main points to share: judgment and hope. It starts out kind of tough to read!
We see God is upset with the Israelites’ rebellion, injustice, and idolatry. As Isaiah is writing to the Israelites, God is also speaking to us. While these callouts can feel daunting, this Scripture is a great way to check our heart posture. What we see over and over again, is God being upset with the position of the Israelites’ hearts. Falling into the comfortability of controlling their own lives, thinking they know best. We’ve all done that from time to time, right? We must acknowledge our need for God.
And while we’re reading about this judgment and sin, we also get some instructions from God. Isaiah 1:17 says, “Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.”
These are such clear instructions from the Lord! There’s a little saying we have around Hope that “clear is kind,” and God is so kind all the time. These instructions are a part of his kindness. God, through Isaiah, is speaking a warning to us to repent and turn around, giving clear instructions on how to move forward, and pointing us to the hope of the world. HOW COOL?!
The best part of this book are the glimmers of hope we see God speak through Isaiah, like the one from Isaiah 1:18.
“Come now, let’s settle this,” says the Lord.
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
I will make them as white as snow.”
This is God talking about Jesus, you guys! He’s telling the Israelites about the hope of the world! Can you imagine going through life, not having any idea that Jesus is your savior, trying to obey God and do the best you can, and then one day this guy Isaiah says, “Someone’s coming soon, and He is going to change everything. He is going to wash you of your sin and make you brand new!”
Doesn’t that feel so exciting? So hopeful?
Carry that in your heart today, my friend. Cling to the love, hope, and joy that the truth of Jesus brings. He changes our whole lives, making us new and righteous before a holy God. Let him lead. Let him be your God. Let him change your heart. Let him work in you to do radical, loving, kind things to spread his love to the world around us. Amen?
Questions for reflection:
1. What is your heart posture like today, and how can you improve it for tomorrow?
2. How can you begin to follow God’s instructions in Isaiah 1:17? This doesn’t need to be anything crazy or huge but pray and ask God!
3. Is there someone in your life who doesn’t know Jesus yet, and how could you share a bit of the hope of Jesus with them?