Wednesday, August 1, 2012

This is the way...


I don't know how exegetically sound my interpretation of these passages are or what kind of red marks I would receive from any one of my professors...but here's what I get from it:

In the middle of a passage describing God's stubborn and (from our hindsight prospective) stupid people, the justice and grace of God's character is most stunning and encouraging.

"Therefore the LORD waits to be gracious to you,
and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you.
For the LORD is a God of justice;
blessed are all those who wait for him."
(Isaiah 30:18 ESV)

Not only is God gracious and patient, He shows Himself and His plan to us at the perfect time. He does not promise an easy road, but He absolutely is there to declare flawless GPS directions for each of our lives.

"For a people shall dwell in Zion, in Jerusalem; you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry. As soon as he hears it, he answers you. And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore, but your eyes shall see your Teacher. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left."
(Isaiah 30:19-21 ESV)

"This is the way, walk in it."

Seems pretty clear to me.

Lord keep us willing, let our quietness and trust be our strength. Keep us from stubborn idolatry, don't let us be worthless and empty! We desire to serve you with gladness of heart and unselfish abandon. Help us to wait for your direction and be faithful to walk in the way that you show us.