Category: Uncategorized
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Emmanuel: Seeking Wisdom in the Now
This morning, we explore chapter 11, focusing on verses 1-3 and 10. The content reflects on the hymn “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” connecting it to scripture about seeking wisdom. It prompts reflection on where we seek wisdom and encourages dependence on Jesus for guidance and insights into His characteristics.
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The Promise of Peace and Restoration
Isaiah 11 shifts from judgment to the prophecy of a future ideal kingdom led by the Messiah, Jesus Christ. This leader, empowered by the Spirit, will judge with righteousness, restore justice, and foster peace among nations and animals alike. Ultimately, God will reunite scattered Israelites and establish their return to…
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God’s Hope in Isaiah 9: A Message for Today
Today we are reading the first part of chapter 9. We see the promise given again. It is given in the midst of incredible hardship, violence, and pain. We see God offering us the same promise. 9 Nevertheless, the gloom of the distressed land will not be like that of the…
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Understanding the Hope of Advent: Reflections on Jesus’ Birth
Today we read the recorded account of the birth of our Savior. Lets pause for a moment and think about Mary and Joseph. At this point in history they are in the “now”. We can assume they are very familiar with the passages of scripture we read from Isaiah. They…
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Waiting on the Lord
Isaiah 8 continues the narrative from the previous chapter, highlighting the impending attacks on Judah by Israel and Syria. God assures King Ahaz of their impending destruction and instructs Isaiah to name his son Maher-shalal-hash-baz, symbolizing this prophecy. Isaiah emphasizes the need to trust in God instead of succumbing to…
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Idolatry. Betrayal. Rebellion.
The reflection on King Ahaz highlights his wrongful reign and disobedience to God. Ascending to the throne at twenty, he ruled for sixteen years in Jerusalem, failing to emulate the righteous ways of his ancestor David. Instead, he engaged in detestable practices, including sacrificing his son and aligning with Assyria…
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The Tension of Peace and Justice
The book of Micah, part of the minor prophets, emphasizes justice and the peace God intends for the world. Micah aims to make his people aware of their ongoing issues, shifting focus from external threats to internal oppression. The tension between peace and justice is explored, citing Jesus’ teachings and…
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Psalms 23 Bracelet
God knew you before you were born (first knot). He got this wonderful idea that He desired to create you. All that you are is the splendor and creation of our Heavenly Father. God (purple bead) came to your first because He loved you first. 19 We love because he first loved…
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The Canopy of God’s Glory
Isaiah 4 describes a transformed Israel where survivors in Zion are deemed holy after God cleanses them. The chapter highlights the Messiah as the “Branch of the Lord,” emphasizing restoration and hope. God promises protection through a canopy of cloud and fire over Mount Zion, symbolizing His enduring refuge for…
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Courageously Embrace Opportunities
Lydia was a businesswoman in her community. We encounter her in God’s Word as having embraced the opportunity to know Jesus as her Lord and Savior. Fear holds us back from making decisions, but today we see Lydia embrace the possibilities of what God has in store for her. Is…
It Starts Small 