A Faithful Sower

 “then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob.”  For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”

Isaiah 58:14/NIV

Reflecting upon the focal verse, I am motivated to “find joy in the Lord” and “ride in triumphant” fashion! I anticipate finding joy in the Lord and being triumphant while seeking to be like Jesus! Jesus’ teaching reminds me of what is important, and I am provided with a vision and heart to take care of God’s lambs and sheep. That would be consistent with what Jesus said: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you” (John 15:12/NIV). I should not be self-centered but focused on the needs of others. Let’s explore the scripture further to understand what is important in God’s eyes!

Reviewing Isaiah 58 (v.9), I am encouraged to “do away with the yoke of oppression, the pointing finger, and malicious talk.” That is important teaching regarding what not to do. My actions should seek to benefit others and not be oppressive. An oppressive nature would be consistent with a self-centered person who harms others. The pointed finger typically displaces blame onto another person and may not be helpful. The malicious talk will not benefit others and ultimately cause harm and torment. Oppressive nature, a pointed finger, and malicious talk are not consistent with what Jesus taught and are displeasing to God! What is pleasing to God? The prophet Isaiah provides us with an answer: 

“…and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.”  

Isaiah 58:10/NIV

Demonstrating love and kindness to others is consistent with what Jesus taught. As I take care of God’s lambs and sheep, the Lord will guide me, satisfy my needs, and strengthen me. I will be refreshed and rejuvenated (58:11). I should also seek to honor the Sabbath, God’s holy day, and live a life pleasing to God (58:13). These are correct priorities and will be pleasing to God!

Reviewing the focal passages in Isaiah 58, I learn what is displeasing to God and what I should not do. However, important teaching guides me regarding my priorities and actions. I am taught to take care of His lambs and sheep and live a life that honors the Sabbath. As I follow God’s instruction manual, I will find joy in the Lord, and I will ride in triumph on the heights of the land! Amen!

Many blessings to you!

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^{Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.}

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