Bible Reading - 2 October

Gods Grace

Isaiah 66:1-24

Philippians 3:4-21

Psalm 74:1-23

Proverbs 24:15-16

In Isaiahs writing he relates to what God has told and shown him and makes his point clear. A prophet is nothing at all unless he is an authoritative spokesperson for God. The Lord says he has heaven for a throne and earth as a footstool. He has no need for people to build him a house. The Israelites had gradually lost their love for God, as their worship ceremonies should have inspired the people to keep their hearts and minds focused on the Lord. Instead they continued to pray and sacrifice as minor rituals and their sins became offensive to the Lord. What God desires from us is not thoughtless sacrifice but rather a contrite sprit and humility. 

God points out that the people have lost any sense of distinguishing holy from the unholy. God makes clear distinctions between righteous and wicked. Those who choose their Own ways  and delight in abominations will receive Gods judgement for God has spoken, but they will neither listen nor respond. Judgement is for those who reject God however the obedient will rejoice in the comfort of God and the righteous will have joyful hearts and new life. We can see this in todays society as more people are lost and the modern culture has lost a sense of what sin is. Sin in todays era has become increasingly normal and celebrated. How can we as disciples help change this? 

 We can certainly start by evangelizing and spreading the word of God and not idling through our day to day lives.

The Lord will come with fire and sword in his judgement. When Jerusalem is reestablished Gods grace will extend to all nations. God will fulfill his promise and  establish new heavens and new earth and an enduring kingdom.                      

In Psalm it gives us comfort knowing that in terrible situations and storms God will protect his people and in the midst of our storms we can find rest and comfort in Jesus. The hardships will make our faith grow strong as believers of Christ.

In proverbs 15-16, it warns the wicked and encourages the righteous, it is foolish for the wicked to try and to overpower the righteous  because godly people have the strength and wisdom to  endure difficult times.

There is much to gain when one gains Christ by justification, sanctification and glorification. We must abandon our own efforts and  turn in faith to Jesus. I pray that we as believers don't get lost in all the earthly things and that we stay focused on Christ. As believers we should imitate those who live Godly lives and be aware of those who don't. I pray that we are conscious of our own failings and that we are dependent upon Gods grace to keep going. Lord, I pray we become more Christlike- more and more each day.  Amen.