The first section of chapter 42 is foretelling of the coming Saviour. However, I think a few of the points can be applied to our lives and how we interact with the world.
"He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets." vs 2
Angry rhetoric is being spewed everywhere. Politicians, media, and general public have traded discussion and debate for ranting and raving, resulting in society becoming more polarized in spite of all the progress that has been made. Adding our voice to an angry mob does not help.
"In faithfulness he will bring forth justice" vs 3
Justice is not for us to dole out. But we can have faith that Justice will be brought forth by a Righteous Judge. In the meantime we should not falter or be discouraged, but remain faithful to the Teachings of salvation, that bring hope to the nations.
We are not placed on earth to mete out justice on God's behalf. He doesn't need us. But people should be able to see the hope for salvation that is in us. And when they ask us about it, we will be "prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." 1 Peter 3:15 ESV
1 comment:
So true - we are not God's instruments of justice. He doesn't need us. Instead, we have the priviledge of being His representatives, His image bearers, spreading His gospel message, being living sacrifices pointing to Him.
Isaiah 44:20
The poor, deluded fool feeds on ashes. He trusts something that can't help him at all. Yet he cannot bring himself to ask, "Is this idol that I'm holding in my hand a lie?"
We deceive ourselves when we think anyone or anything but God (money, fame, power, relationships) can empower our lives or rescue us or is worthy of our worship. This section is almost laughable when you consider the foolishness of those who made idols with their own hands and then worshiped them. But how often have we done the same, blinded by the lies of society and our own hearts? May we recognize the First and the Last, there is no other God like Him!
Post a Comment