Scripture: “Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.” – Isaiah 48:17
Examination: This chapter of Isaiah addresses the practice of idolatry in which the Israelites continue to be involved, and the record of God reminding them of His sovereignty, His redemptive power, and His supremacy.
Application: In allowing God to lead, it’s so much easier when you stop for a moment and consider who God truly is. First and foremost, He is the Almighty God, Creator of the universe, and Sustainer of all life. He is, as it says in Isaiah 9:6, our “…Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” God never makes a mistake; He has our best interests in His heart, and He is the only One capable of making our lives rich and abundant when we follow His lead!
Following God only results in good things. He will never take us down the wrong path. Psalm 23:3 states that He leads us in “…paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” Deuteronomy 28:2 tells us that God desires to bless us, “And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.” One of the greatest benefits of following God is having His peace. This world is chaotic, fearful, and full of uncertainty. This causes increased anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, and lack of purpose. When a person decides to follow God, the peace of God, that passes our understanding, replaces feelings of fear, worry, and doubt.
When I was a child, I remember feeling so safe when my hand was held in my dad’s. The peace I felt from my dad holding me firmly in his hand was almost indescribable. I knew that nothing would harm me; my dad was my protector, and I was secure in his care. That’s how it is with God when we put our trust in Him. There is nothing that can replace the peace I find from knowing He’s got everything under control, and there is absolutely no need for me to worry about tomorrow. God is never caught off-guard, never utters the word, “Oops!”, and never is at a loss for what to do.
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.” (Psalm 37:23). Following God as He leads promises a more abundant life in Him as I grow my faith through His Word and apply it to my life.
Memory Verse: “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.” – Psalm 32:8
I don't know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day.
I don't borrow from its sunshine, for its skies may turn to gray.
I don't worry o'er the future, for I know what Jesus said,
And today I'll walk beside Him, for He knows what is ahead.
Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand;
But I know who holds tomorrow, and I know who holds my hand.
(from “I Don’t Know About Tomorrow” by Ira F. Stanphill)
Every day is one learning Who GOD is, What HE does in my life because I’m HIS child. Letting HIM lead me daily gives Peace, Comfort and Hope. I’m forever Thankful for HIS AMAZING LOVE.