Read: Isaiah 8:1-9:21; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; Psalm 55:1-23; Proverbs 23:3-4
God told Isaiah to take a scroll and write down the word Maher-Shalal-Has-Baz that means “quick to the spoil; swift to the prey”. This was to be the name of Isaiah’s son. Yesterday we read that God told Isaiah the virgin would have a son and name him Emanuel which means “God with us”. By the time Isaiah’s son could say “ma ma” or “da da” the wealth of Damascus and the plunder of Samaria would be carried off by the Assyrians. Part of the plunder of Samaria was the gold they took from Jerusalem’s temple. Since the people didn’t repent when Rezin and Remaliah reigned over them, God was sending the Assyrians who were bloodthirsty and barbaric.
God warned Isaiah not to get caught up in the thought of the day. He told them not to fear what the people feared or dread it. War was imminent but God would take care of those that fear him. God told Isaiah to bind the Word on the hearts of his disciples and tell them to wait on the Lord. God’s disciples would be signs and symbols to the people. The people would have no hope because they didn’t put their trust in the Lord.
In the future, the people who walked in darkness would see a great light. This light would be John the Baptist preaching repentance and getting them ready for The Light to come. God promised to come to the Gentles in Galilee and bring salvation. He went on to prophesy the birth and names of Jesus. He would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. This was what the people would have to wait for. It would not come in their lifetime, but their children’s children would see him.
Paul tells the people about his visions but to stay humble, Satan sent him a messenger to torment him. We don’t know if this is a person or a spirit but it kept Paul humble and needing God.
Lord, make us a sign and a symbol to the world of your great salvation. May your name be exalted.
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