The Creator's Promise

Read Isaiah 42
 
Isaiah 42:5 This is what God the Lord says, he who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it.
 
THIS chapter certainly is a good source to answer the question, “Who is God?” God the Lord reminds us he is Yahweh, the Creator, the Provider. He is Life. He is Almighty in each particle of his universe. Why would we not see his glory with clear eyes and listen to him with open ears?
    God the Lord forcefully reminds Israel to do see and hear in verse 9a “See, the former things have taken place.” He reminded Israel he has planned, promised and judged. He has said, “I will do it.” And he has done so.
    Assuring and reminding Israel of his history with them, God then points Israel’s eyes and ears ahead: verse 9b “and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you.” In essence, “Listen to my Word. It is true past, present and future.”
    With emphasis, verses 18-19 express a common illustration of the Almighty’s frustration and condemnation of his peoples faithless lives. “Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see! Who is blind but my servant, and deaf like the messenger I send? Who is blind like the one committed to me, blind like the servant of the Lord?” Israel has been an unresponsive servant to God the Lord’s righteous rule. How can people who know so much of God be so ignorant and unresponsive?
    The chapter ends with a question for all mankind: Isaiah 42:23 Which of you will listen to this or pay close attention in time to come? Indeed, this question must be asked continually in our Christian lives and in Jesus’ church. How do you answer? Can you tell God, “I’ve been faithful to trust you have been and will be active throughout history. I know you judge and you bless. I know your sovereign hand protects your own until Jesus returns. I know your desires and purposes will be done on your earth.” Jesus calls you to such a living faith. Matthew 24:42 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” Pray the Spirit empowers you into it.
    We will see as we move through Isaiah the image of sin’s captivity, keeping us blind and deaf to God’s truth. May his Spirit be upon you and your family, church and community to see and hear from God the Lord. Only in the Holy God will you find true freedom.
 
Prayer: God the Lord, I pray we are faithful obedient servants with clear eyes, open ears and servant hearts to love you. Amen.