Intro: God is all about giving his children new beginnings; he brings forgiveness, salvation, and hope. God is merciful and he knows how difficult life can be, so his mercies are new each morning and he brings a glorious new beginning with each sunrise (Lam 3:23). We can place our hope in the faithfulness of God. Yet, as God’s children, our part is to align with his nature and live for his purpose. How can we live with that hope?
In our passage today from the prophet Isaiah, Israel is facing a new beginning following the Exile. They have new choices that come with this new life. Although God brings judgment on Israel, he does not completely destroy them. He leaves a remnant to demonstrate his mercy and faithfulness; God helps them gain a truer picture of his nature and his purpose for them. God lives high above human difficulties. So whatever is going on in your life, God is able to help you.
Today’s passage speaks to my heart about the Righteous Branch who brings my life eternal salvation and hope. The Lord promises to cleanse us and sanctify us [transform us by making us holy]. Everything about God is a message of renewal, we just simply have to desire the offer he brings. God’s purpose is to make those called by his name into a new creation in Christ Jesus. As his new creation, God dwells with us and protects us. As followers of Christ, we are the chosen who have become the temple of the Living God (2 Cor 6:16). If you need restoration, Jesus is your answer. Trust him with your life.
Isaiah 4:2-6 NLT A Promise of Restoration
2
But in that day, the branch of the Lord
will be beautiful and glorious;
the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory
of all who survive in Israel.
3
All who remain in Zion
will be a holy people—
those who survive the destruction of Jerusalem
and are recorded among the living.
4
The Lord will wash the filth from beautiful Zion
and cleanse Jerusalem of its bloodstains
with the hot breath of fiery judgment.
5
Then the Lord will provide shade for Mount Zion
and all who assemble there.
He will provide a canopy of cloud during the day
and smoke and flaming fire at night,
covering the glorious land.
6
It will be a shelter from daytime heat
and a hiding place from storms and rain.
Prayer: Lord, to align with your nature and purpose is always difficult for our flesh, but thank you for providing the Holy Spirit and the power to follow you into something so much better than what the world offers. Thank you for your mercy and your many blessings. In Jesus’ name. Amen.