Fearing Truth

Fearing Truth
Read Isaiah 57
 
Isaiah 57:9-12 “You went to Molech with olive oil and increased your perfumes. You sent your ambassadors far away; you descended to the grave itself! You were wearied by all your ways, but you would not say, ‘It is hopeless.’ You found renewal of your strength, and so you did not faint. 11 Whom have you so dreaded and feared that you have been false to me, and have neither remembered me nor pondered this in your hearts? Is it not because I have long been silent that you do not fear me? 12 I will expose your righteousness and your works, and they will not benefit you.”
 
THE LORD asked a very powerful question of Israel. It is one we all must answer: Whom have you so dreaded and feared that you have been false to me, and have neither remembered me nor pondered this in your hearts?
   God’s words to Israel here specifically condemn them for their persistent Molech worship. This idolatry included child sacrifice – a demon that still rages throughout the world. Think of it. God’s chosen people killed children to appease an idol! They descended to the grave, and surely they became weary of soul. Is it possible to consider a mother’s grief as she lay her child on a detestable altar? What does such an act do but infect a soul with remorse, grief and anguish? Yet, they persisted, even in their soul’s great weariness to destroy their families and blind themselves to God. God said he would expose their righteousness to show they had none. His condemnation pointed to the death ruling Israel’s hearts.
   Do you often wonder, “How can people persist in doing wrong? Do they not see how it harms them?” The basic answer is, “No, they do not. They are even diligent and purposeful to stay in the lie, so truth will not confront them.” The power of self-rule darkens the heart so dramatically, people angrily and violently oppose God. This is humanity’s history since Eden to this moment and onto the Final Day of the Lord. Even as sin destroys them, they will violently war against God. This is the Bible’s truth and the reason the world is afraid of God’s Book.
   Be of love for God and for others. Regardless of how lovingly and tenderly, firmly and convincingly we tell of Jesus’ gospel – that must include the truth of sin – people will directly, indirectly and constantly reject you and your message. A God-like love goes beyond worldly conflicts to focus on eternal peace.
   Strive for Jesus as the world strives against him. It is our task and purpose. He is the Lord, who has suffered, so you and I have good news, “Jesus save!”
 
Ecclesiastes 2:22 What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under the sun? 23 All his days his work is pain and grief; even at night his mind does not rest. This too is meaningless. 
 
Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.