*Note to Subscribers: I will be writing spiritual reflections multiple times a week. They are not meant to be devotionals, but rather a way to chronicle and share my spiritual journey. These posts will be stored within the Spiritual Reflections tab of my blog. You will be able to distinguish a spiritual reflection post from a general post by the title. Spiritual reflection will always be in the format of AB(C). #(-#) e.g. GEN. 12, PS. 23-27, ISA 9-10 etc., where general post will be some type of phrase such as Horseshoes & Hand Grenades. I share this because I know some of you will not be interested in the spiritual reflections. Moving forward, this knowledge should help you filter the posts of your interest. May you all enjoy as the Spirit leads.
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I concluded my pre-reading prayer this morning with the petition, “lead me in the way everlasting” (ps 139:24). This will be important later.
9:4 “You have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor.” Yes, the work of Jesus has done this, but there are times in my life where this does not feel true. They are times when I feel utterly burdened, beat, and controlled by sin. Though I may feel this way, I must learn to make a habit of pressing into the truth of this verse, to press into the truth of its ramifications, the truth of my reality; especially when I’m feeling the opposite.
9:5 “Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.” Last Christmas, as I was reading Isa. 9:2-7, when I came upon this verse I was confused and thought its placement to be odd. How does this fit with the Christmas narrative? I didn’t put much thought into it..maybe because I was not supposed to be focusing on this aspect of the scripture at the time. But as I read today, its relevance and placement became crystal clear. In the last days of the age of man, everything not of God will be burned away (2 Pet. 3:9-18), and the only things which will remain are the things which belong to the “way everlasting” (Rev. 21:1-5).
9:2-7 The gospel (good news) being: On those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned (v.2), therefore the people rejoice (v.3), because their burdens and oppressors will be removed (v.4), and everything wicked will be destined for burning (v.5), because Jesus is born…the King, the Prince of Peace has come (v.6), and of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end (v.7).
9:19 “By the wrath of the LORD Almighty the land will be scorched and the people will be fuel for the fire.”
10:17 “The Light of Israel will become a fire, their Holy One a flame; in a single day it will burn and consume his thorns and his briers.” The True Vine (John 15:1-5) and his bride (the Church will remain while all the thorns and briers are burned away.
10:13 “By the strength of my hand I have done this, and by my wisdom, because I have understanding.” Only God has the true understanding of every situation and circumstance. He is a good and righteous judge. Lord, may I be ever seeking of this, of your understanding and wisdom. Thank you that you give to all who ask (James 1:5).
Unmasked Unfiltered 