June 7, 2018
What does it say?
God told Isaiah to speak words of encouragement to the people of Jerusalem. God’s anger had passed after an extensive period of punishment; it was time for recovery.
What does it mean?
Throughout the Old Testament, God related to Israel as their Father. His children were obedient at times but disobedient at other times. When they disobeyed, they deserved and benefited from His discipline. When they had paid the price for their disobedience and had learned their lesson, it was time to forgive, heal, and move on. God’s righteousness is seen in His punishing His children for their disobedience, but His mercy, grace, and love are seen in His forgiving, healing, and restoring them. This chapter signals the beginning of the restoration of God’s people to their Father.
How should I respond?
Chances are you can think of someone who has hurt you deeply. God also feels that kind of hurt when His people disobey Him. Even though our initial response to an offense is to feel betrayed or angry, holding onto the hurt damages you more than it does the person who hurt you. Whose words or actions have caused you pain? Followers of Christ should be careful to handle negative emotions in ways that model and honor Him. Ask God today to help you forgive. Being forgiven and offering forgiveness lead to another emotion: peace.