WE SHALL NOT DIE - Reading With the People of God #17Sample

When We Cry Out to God

In Isaiah 4, God gives a promise of restoration. He speaks of a day when the “Branch of the Lord,” a picture of the coming Messiah, will bring beauty, life, and holiness. God Himself will be a shelter, a covering over His people, protecting them like a canopy from the heat and storm. It’s a powerful image: not only does God judge sin, but He stays near to protect and purify His people.

In Luke 18, we see that promise in action. A widow won’t stop asking for justice. A sinner begs for mercy. A blind man keeps shouting until Jesus stops. And in each case, Jesus does not turn them away. He listens. He responds. He restores.

It reminds me of times I’ve had as a dad on nights when one of my kids wake up afraid, crying out from the dark, unsure of what they need, but certain that I’ll come. They don’t have to explain everything perfectly. They just have to call. And because I’m their dad, I come close. I comfort. I stay with them.

That’s how Jesus responds to us.

He’s not waiting for perfect prayers or polished words. He’s looking for hearts that reach out to Him in faith. And when we do, He draws near, just like He always has.

The same God who promises shelter in Isaiah is the same Savior who stops on the road in Luke. He is our covering, our healer, our hope. So cry out to Him. He hears. He cares. And He’s close.

Primer contributed by: Jonathan Knapp, Executive Pastor, Cornerstone Community Church of Chowchilla