SEPTEMBER 22, Isaiah 40:1-5

While chapters 1-39 of Isaiah tell of God’s judgments for the sins of the people of Judah and the surrounding nations, chapters 40-66 tell of God’s consolation and the restoration of Judah. Chapter 39 closes with Judah’s coming conquest and captivity by Babylon. Chapter 40 opens with comforting words of their restoration and return back to their homeland.

God had covenanted with His people that He would love them with an everlasting love. He will chastise His people when they sin but He will also forgive them when they repent. God is faithful to His promises to give His people a glorious future, even as He deals with them for their sin and rebellion.

Do you trust in God’s faithfulness? He is like a Good Shepherd who “shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom” (Isaiah 40:11). He will never fail to carry out His promises.

Write “Captivity” and “Restoration” at the correct arrows.

Thought: When we suffer, God knows and cares.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for being with us in all our sufferings. Thank You that the Lord Jesus being 100% God and 100% man, is able to know and understand man’s weaknesses. Help me, Heavenly Father, to press on in my daily walk with You so that I will remain faithful. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.