Salvation: A Study in IsaiahSample

What does it say?

After Isaiah praised God, the Father of Israel, he asked for compassion and retribution on their enemies. He admitted their sin and asked God to look at them and forgive them.

What does it mean?

These chapters contain Isaiah’s prophetic prayer on behalf of those who would be exiled to Babylon more than 100 years later. The righteous remnant desired to experience the power and love of their God, just as their forefathers had during the years in the wilderness. Acknowledging their sin showed recognition that their choices had created the distance between God and His people. With no righteousness of their own, their best efforts were like dirty rags in His sight. They would once again seek to be a nation shaped by God’s hand, like a lump of clay on a potter’s wheel.

How should I respond?

During some periods of time, more than others, you recognize exactly who you are in God’s eyes. If you’ve chosen to receive the death of Jesus as the payment for your sin, God sees His righteousness covering you. But it is impossible to maintain a healthy relationship and open communication with Him when you choose to rebel. Has sin created distance between you and the Lord? Although no good deed can make up for it, your situation is not hopeless. Ask God for the clarity to see your sin as He sees it. As you allow God to shape you as He wishes, you’ll experience His love, power, and forgiveness.