For the last few weeks, the journey has taken me through Isaiah 1-6. Life can be a challenge, but we have all we need because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Available is the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The love displayed on the cross changes everything because we receive boldness, courage, and strength to take on each challenge of each day.

On the journey through Isaiah 1:1-17, learned are the results of a lack of discipline and what is needed to get it back. The nation of Israel had rebelled against God and gotten off track. Noted is that we have the road map, the formula, and the game plan to an amazing future in God’s Word that leads one in the right direction. Effective application of His word requires discipline which is a composite of good habits consistently carried out and resulting in good character.

A thought from Isaiah 1:18-31 is the need to overcome the bad influences of society. To ask the Father to be our steady influence as we run the race to victory. To be dedicated to asking others to receive the Redeemer, and desire to be the Father’s feet and hands to carry out His purpose.

Society was in bad shape in Israel during the time of Isaiah the prophet, but the treasure found in Isaiah 2 is that searching and learning about God’s Way leads us to where we want to go. If individuals build their life on the path of God, then the first steps are taken to a brighter future.  

A thought gained from Isaiah 3 is that life throws some curves, but God can give a fresh change if we keep our eyes on the reward. God through Jesus can meet all our needs in life so keep on praising Him.

Brought out in Isaiah 4 – 5 is that the vineyard or nation of Israel had briers and thorns which kept the vines or people from being fruitful. We can be thankful that today we have Jesus as the main vine and His followers are those connected to Him. Briers and thorns like bad habits don’t seem harmful until they grow to entangle the vines and block the sunlight. The Good News is that we can cultivate and remove them one day at a time by seeking the Truth with discipline and following the Way.

Within Isaiah 6 are ideas for carrying out an assignment from the Lord. The first step is going to the Lord in prayer and listening for the call from the Lord. Then, to organize the steps needed to carry it out with plans of action. Transforming these plans into reality may take time and it may not seem to be yielding much fruit, but that’s when we need inspiration and encouragement to keep going.

For this inspiration and encouragement, reflect on the Word and praise the Lord with songs like Here I Am, Lord – Collin Raye. What keeps us going is knowing God’s grace is enough. We just simply accept Jesus in our heart. No need to know it all but just accept the call.