Scripture: “And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.” – Isaiah 11:10
Observation: In this chapter, Isaiah describes the Messiah in two different scenarios. Initially, the reference regards the first coming of Jesus. The prophet explains his lineage… from the root of Jesse, David’s father… and the characteristics He will possess when He is here at the first advent (v1-2). It seems that the rest of the chapter is more descriptive of the second advent of Christ. Isaiah describes the role of Jesus as King, and the conditions of the environment at that time.
Application: In our key verse, it is so important to note that the Gentiles are included with the Jewish nation in being able to come to salvation through Christ. The Lord Jesus is a banner for every single person regardless of ethnicity, gender, or age, and He draws all men to Himself. John 12:32 records Jesus’ words, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” Jesus didn’t say “some men” or “Jewish men”, instead, He said, “all men”. How wonderful to know that we are included in God’s redemptive plan! We are assured that Jesus will never refuse us! John 6:37 states, “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” What blessed assurance!
Prayer: O Heavenly Father, Almighty God, Precious Lord, Omnipotent Creator, Life Sustainer. I could go on and on… Your characteristics are amazing and unending! You are so good to me… so much more than I deserve! Thank You for all you’ve done for me, all You’ve protected me from… things I never even knew would harm me, You always kept me safe. Thank You. Thank You for adopting me into Your family. I know without a doubt that Jesus is mine, and I am His! What joy divine! What comfort I have in my heart and soul. I am loved by the One who created all things… You know every star in the heavens, everything on earth… and yet You know me by my name! I am so humbled and so very blessed. In the name of my precious holy Saviour, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.
This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.
This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.
(from “Blessed Assurance” by Fanny Crosby)
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“And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;” – Isaiah 11:2