Isaiah 36-40
Ch. 36:
*Battle, enemies, taunting, doubts, war tactics, temptations, bargains/agreements- never make agreements with Satan!
*From the heart the mouth speaks.
*Good tree-good fruit. Don't be surprised when bad tree brings bad fruit.
*There are times to not answer, don't speak, keep silent, stay calm. I don't have to defend myself or God.
Ch. 37:
*Isaiah speaks for the first time in first person. Remember: his name means "the Lord saves".
*Do not be afraid of anything or anyone.
*Take my problems directly to God immediately.
*v20. "So that the earth may know that you are God." Am I 'in'? Am I 'about' that? Will I join Him in that goal?
*v21. "Because you have prayed...". I need to pray!
*Don't count out "the Angel of the Lord"!
Ch. 38:
*v2. Walk before the Lord faithfully w/ wholehearted devotion and do good in your life. Have I been faithful or have I cheated on Him with my idols of self and pride? How much of my heart is devoted to Him? 10% tithe? What kind of man will I be today?
*God is a merciful God.
*God defies science, logic, and reasoning. Miracles are easy for Him. He can fix, repair, change anything and anyone in an instant. Pray to Him!
*So, what is my response to God saving me? His mercy? His healing and deliverance? Is it like Saul/Paul? Hezekiah? My life should be a response to this.
Ch. 39:
*I am to be wise in guarding/protecting what the Lord has established. I don't have to trust men. I can know that I live in a fallen world with enemies around.
Ch. 40:
*Who is like God? Consider His character in all things.
*v11. He is our Shepherd-leading/caring for us. Let Him!
*Look at nature, how it reflects His glory, power, creativity, awesomeness, creator. Praise Him! Worship Him!
*v29-31. Ah yeah. He gives strength to the weary, power to the weak. Again, continuing to place my hope in the Lord will renew my strength. It's a miracle that He could propel me to rise above earthly challenges and to finish my race, fulfilling my purpose. I can be invincible in Christ.
