Advent in Exile - Christmas Longing With IsaiahSample

Wilderness Trust

How many of us have been in a desperate place?

Whether physically, mentally, or spiritually, we have all been in the wilderness. The Scriptures in this devotion inspire us to trust and be thankful in the midst of life. We are encouaraged to look up, as our redemption draws close.

The prophet, Isaia,h and the psalmist, David, knew and trusted God. They believed that He would deliver His people.

This hope is what we cling to today. Isaiah spoke inverse 51:1, that all who seek Him will be delivered. David sang in Psalms 61:1, "while in the wilderness of Judah, I earnestly search for you. Your love is better than life itself!"

As chapter 51 continues, Isaiah reminds Israel about the promise given to Abraham. He declares by trusting in God, they will be blessed. Then, he calls for revival and a time of thanksgiving.

In Psalms 63:4-8, David shows the significance of praise and a call to trust. In today's readings, I noticed how Isaiah speaks corporately, compared to how David speaks personally. David accepts God's invitation to trust Him.

In Isaiah 51:6-8, Isaiah says the earth will fade, but God’s salvation, Jesus, will last forever. Generation to generation. Isaiah speaks of God’s eternal salvation which was to come. David speaks about God’s right hand holding him, a security we find in Jesus who sits at God’s right hand and intercedes on our behalf while we are in the wilderness. (Psalms 61:8)

God, thank You for Isaiah and David’s examples, which point to Your salvation! Jesus changes everything!

"In Light of this Advent Season, what is your heart longing for?"

-Marcus McDaniel