TODAY’S BIBLE READING CHALLENGE:
Isaiah 10:1-11:16
2 Corinthians 12:11-21
Psalm 56:1-13
Proverbs 23:6-8
Isaiah 10:2 — God has active concerns for how we act here on earth, and for how we deal with the needy, the poor, the widows, and the fatherless. Note that He is not advocating equality of outcome (redistribution), but equality of access (e.g. I do not have a right to a “Not Guilty” verdict, but I do have a right to a fair trial). Laws that hurt the poor and needy are bad laws. The Heritage Foundation has an interesting report on big government policies that hurt the poor and how to address them.
Isaiah 10:21 — What is the point of all this judgment? That the remnant of Israel returns to the Mighty God! While this is Old Testament, we see parallels in the New Testament. Many Christian families have mourned their children going astray. Yet, those children who experience not only the pleasures of sin for a season but also the chastening of the LORD, will return to the Father.
Isaiah 11:1 — Who is this Branch? We read about the Branch in Isaiah 4:2. The Branch is beautiful and glorious and sanctifying Israel. Now we read that this is the descendant of David (Jesse’s son), who shall have a special spirit – judging the poor, smiting the earth, and slaying the wicked.
Isaiah 11:6 — When has the wolf lain down with the lamb? Not in my lifetime, but in the Millennial Kingdom we will see this era of peace (Isaiah 11:6-9). This is the time spoken of in Isaiah 2:4 as well. Obviously, this time hasn’t come yet.
Isaiah 11:16 — A new Red Sea Highway? This will be interesting to see!
2 Corinthians 12:15 — The woes of many a pastor! The more love you show to people sometimes the less you are loved.
2 Corinthians 12:17 — Paul has been emphasizing throughout this chapter that he sought nothing from the people. He wasn’t a televangelist raising money for a new Gulfstream G650. He spent and was spent for them (2 Corinthians 12:15).
2 Corinthians 12:20-21 — How many of these things do we find in our lives? No, Paul wasn’t going to house-search for “envyings” and “strifes,” but Jesus was! He’s always with the believer (He indwells them), so let’s examine our lives and live for God!
Psalm 56:3 — Here’s an easy way to memorize from Mr. E!
Psalm 56:13 — The psalmist thanks God for his soul’s salvation from spiritual death, but now he asks for deliverance from physical death. If God has saved our soul, He can save our body!
Proverbs 26:7 — Guarding your thoughts is so important because thoughts determine actions, and your actions determine your character.
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