The word of our God stands forever. It is the living word – meant for those who have come before us and for those who will come after us. God uses His written word to speak into our lives and provide hope, peace, wisdom, courage, and reminders of who He is.
As I read from the book of Isaiah this morning, I came to chapter 40, which is loaded with words I needed to hear. I am sure so many others need to hear them as well. The chapter is filled with words of God’s power, His strength, His care for us, His provision for our needs.
“Comfort, comfort my people,” says your God.” – Isaiah 40:1. Even from the beginning of the chapter is was as if God was saying: “Hey, let my words bring you comfort, Michelle, but then also share what you know about me to comfort those with whom you have contact.” Friend, may the words of our LORD demonstrate not only how amazing this God of Creation is, but also, how incredible it is that this same God sees us and can and will meet each of our needs.
“Yes, the Sovereign LORD is coming in power. He will rule with a powerful arm. See, He will bring His reward with Him as He comes. He will feed His flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in His arms, holding them close to His heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young.” (Isaiah 40:10-11)
How beautiful is the image of God holding us in this way? Of caring for us so deeply? He is the shepherd and we are being held close to His heart. Close to His heart. Truly, I love picturing myself there.
“Who else has held the oceans in His hand? Who has measured off the heavens with His fingers? Who else knows the weight of the earth or has weighed the mountains and hills on a scale? Who is able to advise the Spirit of the LORD? Who knows enough to give Him advice or teach Him? Has the LORD ever needed anyone’s advice? Does He need instruction about what is good? Did someone teach Him what is right or show Him the path of justice? (Isaiah 40:12-14)
God’s infinite wisdom exceeds what we can ever comprehend or know. His powerful hand has held more than we can imagine. God is the author of wisdom.
“To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal?” asks the Holy One. “Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by its name. Because of His great power and incomparable strength, not a single one is missing. O Jacob, how can you say the LORD does not see your trouble? O Israel, how can you say God ignores your rights? Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of His understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” (Isaiah 40:25-29)
God has no equal. No one can compare. It is this God, who knows all of His creation intimately. If God knows the name of each star and cares enough to make sure not one is missing, how much more will this same God notice and care about each of us? And furthermore, so often I am depleted. Exhausted. God never is. In fact, God provides strength to me so that I may continue to live the life that He has called me to.
“But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Why would we put our trust anywhere else? God’s power is too great, His love too strong, to settle for anything less than what He is offering.
God longs to comfort us and meet our every need. His word stands forever.
Blessings!