Salvation: A Study in IsaiahSample

What does it say?

While Israel stubbornly clung to their idols, God proclaimed both the nation’s punishment and deliverance from Babylon.

What does it mean?

Israel had a history of responding to God’s deliverance and blessings with short-term thankfulness and obedience but long-term apathy and rebellion. Many generations of Israelites went through this cycle of rebellion – punishment – prayer – deliverance – thankfulness – and rebellion again. Isaiah, as well as the other prophets, proclaimed God’s message during Israel’s stage of rebellion but also during their stage of punishment. God seemed to be waiting for His children to say, “God, You are right, and we are wrong.”

How should I respond?

Why is it so hard to say, “I was wrong; I blew it; I’m sorry. Will you forgive me?” When we sincerely apologize, there are usually no further negative consequences, but we are so slow to admit our fault! The peace we experience when we are forgiven outweighs whatever we think we might gain by not apologizing. Is there something you need to get right with someone? What has stopped you from apologizing and asking for forgiveness? Is there something you need to get right with God? He is waiting with open arms to listen to you and forgive you.