Following God’s Call No Matter the Cost
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Audio By Carbonatix
Have you ever felt God’s call tugging at your heart, urging you to step out in faith and make sacrifices for a greater purpose? As an author, I often create characters who embody bravery and selflessness, but I have to admit–it’s much easier to write about those things than to live them out when things get tough. I’ve faced several times in my life when I had to make significant sacrifices; my journey as a writer and starting a crisis pregnancy center have both required significant sacrifices, teaching me profound lessons about faith and obedience.
When I first felt called to pursue writing, it came with many challenges. Balancing my time between family, work, and my passion for writing often felt overwhelming. I felt like I was taking time away from my family to work on my craft, and I felt guilty about it. There were financial sacrifices, long hours, and moments of self-doubt. Yet, through it all, I held on to the promise in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” This verse reminded me that my sacrifices were part of an excellent plan. I found peace in my time with God and the unfailing support of my family as they cheered me on.
God’s Call in My Life
Co-founding a crisis pregnancy center was another leap of faith that demanded courage and perseverance. We opened the center with a desire to provide support and hope to women facing unplanned pregnancies. It required countless hours of planning, fundraising, and navigating challenges. There were times I wondered if I had taken on too much. But witnessing the impact on the lives of the teens and families we served was a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of answering His call, no matter the cost.
In my novel Breath of Bones, co-written with my son Nathan, we wanted to highlight the sacrifices made by ordinary people during extraordinary times. The characters, like Kateřina, were inspired by actual individuals who stood up against the evils of Nazi Germany. Their courage and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good are potent reminders of what it means to follow God’s call. Kateřina’s encounters and mission were divinely orchestrated, showing readers that God’s hand is at work even in the darkest times.
Recognizing God’s Call
Writing about brave and selfless characters is one thing, but living out those qualities in real life is another. I often find myself humbled by my characters’ courage and reminded that God calls each of us to a path of sacrifice and faith. Hebrews 13:16 encourages us, “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” This verse is a call to action, urging us to step out in faith and trust that God will use our sacrifices for His glory.
Three Ways to Follow God’s Call No Matter the Cost
- Trust in God’s Provision: When God calls us to step out in faith, it’s natural to feel anxious about the sacrifices involved. Remember that God is our provider and will equip us with everything we need. Philippians 4:19 reassures us, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” Trust that He will supply your needs as you follow His call.
- Seek Community Support: God often places people in our lives to support and encourage us. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can pray with you, offer advice, and provide practical help. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either falls, one can help the other up.” Lean on your community as you pursue God’s calling.
- Focus on Eternal Impact: It’s easy to become discouraged by the immediate challenges and sacrifices. Keep your eyes on the eternal impact of your obedience. 2 Corinthians 4:17 encourages us, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” Remember that your sacrifices contribute to God’s more excellent plan and eternal purposes.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to follow You, even when it requires sacrifice. Give us the courage to step out in faith, trusting in Your provision and guidance. Surround us with a supportive community, and help us to keep our eyes on the eternal impact of our obedience. May our lives reflect Your glory and bring hope to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection Questions
- Can you recall a time when you made a significant sacrifice to follow God’s call? How did you experience His provision and guidance during that time?
- Who are the people in your life who support and encourage you in your faith journey? How can you lean on them as you pursue God’s calling?
- How can you focus on the eternal impact of your sacrifices rather than the immediate challenges?
As we navigate the path of faith and sacrifice, remember that God is with us every step. By trusting in His provision, seeking community support, and focusing on the eternal impact of our obedience, we can follow His call no matter the cost. May our lives be a testament to His faithfulness and love.
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
June 17
2 Chronicles 21:8-20
2 Kings 8:23-29
2 Chronicles 22:1-9
2 Kings 9
2 Kings 10:1-31
Jehu’s Campaign and
God’s Prophecy Fulfilled
Today’s Bible reading covers several passages: 2 Chronicles 21:8-20, 2 Kings 8:23-29, 2 Chronicles 22:1-7, 2 Kings 9, 2 Kings 10:1-17, 2 Chronicles 22:8-9, and 2 Kings 10:18-31. We backtrack a bit to revisit familiar names and stories from different angles.
Edom rebels against Judah, and Jehoram faces their forces but escapes. However, he receives a dire prophecy from Elijah due to his evil actions. The prophecy comes true as Jehoram suffers a painful death, surrounded by enemies and without mourning from his people.
In Israel, Joram, Ahab’s son, reigns while Ahaziah, Jehoram’s son, becomes king of Judah. Their alliance through marriage leads to both kings meeting Jehu, whom the Lord anointed to destroy Ahab’s house. Jehu’s secret anointing sets off a chain of dramatic events, fulfilling God’s prophecies through Elijah.
Word of the Day: Prophecy
Prophecy – forecast, foretell, predict (from the Divine)
This word resonates deeply today as we see God’s promises and prophecies come to fruition. In 1 Kings 19:15-18, God instructed Elijah to anoint Hazael, Jehu, and Elisha, prophesying their roles in His divine plan. Today’s reading vividly demonstrates the fulfillment of these prophecies, showcasing God’s unwavering faithfulness.
Reflection
As we dive into these intense narratives, we witness the fulfillment of God’s words through Elijah. Despite the chaotic and brutal events, one thing remains clear: God keeps His promises. From the fall of Ahab’s house to the gruesome demise of Jezebel, each prophecy unfolds with precision.
This reminds us of the vastness of God’s plan and the certainty of His word. When God speaks, His words hold power and truth. Reflecting on this can bolster our faith and trust in Him, knowing that His promises are steadfast.
Application
The story of Jehu is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and the importance of obedience. Jehu was anointed to bring divine judgment upon Ahab’s descendants and the worshipers of Baal. His zeal and determination were commendable, yet he fell short in his personal devotion to God.
Jehu executed his mission with precision but failed to fully obey God’s law. This highlights a crucial lesson for us: zeal for righteousness must be coupled with a personal relationship with God. It’s not enough to fight for what is right; we must also walk closely with God, submitting our hearts and lives to Him.
Personal Takeaway
Jehu’s story serves as both an inspiration and a warning. It’s easier to fight against visible evils and injustices, but nurturing a personal relationship with God requires humility and dedication. Let’s strive to balance our zeal for righteousness with a deep, personal devotion to God, ensuring that our actions align with His will.
As we continue our journey through the Bible, let’s remember that God’s prophecies and promises are reliable. He is a big, big God, and getting to know Him better through His word is the greatest adventure we can embark on. Trust in His faithfulness, and let His word guide your path.
June 18
2 Kings 10:32-36
2 Kings 11
2 Kings 12:1-16
2 Chronicles 22:10-12
2 Chronicles 23
2 Chronicles 24:1-22
Plots and Plans –
Joash’s Journey to the Throne
Today’s reading is packed with intrigue, drama, and divine intervention! Upon King Ahaziah’s death, his mother Athaliah seizes the throne and orders the execution of all royal heirs. Ahaziah’s sister Jehosheba, wife of the priest Jehoiada, rescues Joash, hiding him in the temple for six years. In the seventh year, Jehoiada reveals Joash, makes a covenant with commanders, and crowns him king. Athaliah’s plot is thwarted, and Joash begins his reign, restoring worship in the temple.
Word of the Day: Plotted
Plotted – secretly make plans to carry out or devise the sequence of events in
Queen Athaliah plotted to seize the throne, while the priest Jehoiada plotted to restore the Davidic line. This story is a reminder that unrighteous plots cannot prevail against God’s plans.
Reflection
Though intense, the drama in today’s reading highlights God’s sovereign control over history. Despite Athaliah’s wicked schemes, God’s plan for David’s descendants to remain on the throne prevails. Jehoiada’s plot to protect Joash and restore him as king is a testament to godly wisdom and strategic planning.
Jehoiada’s efforts not only secured Joash’s throne but also reinstated the rightful worship of God in the temple. However, Joash’s reign was not without flaws. Despite his initial obedience to God, he failed to completely eradicate pagan worship. This partial obedience led to eventual downfall after Jehoiada’s death, illustrating the importance of sustained, heartfelt devotion to God.
Application
Joash’s story offers valuable lessons on the nature of obedience and spiritual leadership. True obedience stems from inner conviction rather than merely following directions. Joash did what was right while Jehoiada was alive, but once the priest died, he strayed. This shift underscores the necessity of instilling lasting spiritual values rather than relying on external guidance.
We too risk losing our spiritual bearings if we depend solely on external authorities. It’s crucial to develop a personal, heartfelt relationship with God, ensuring our actions align with His will out of genuine conviction.
Personal Takeaway
Jehoiada’s faithful plotting and Joash’s initial obedience remind us of the importance of godly influence and the perils of superficial compliance. Reflecting on this story, let’s strive to cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, guiding our actions by inner conviction rather than external pressure.
As we continue our journey through the Bible, let’s remember that God’s plans are sovereign, and His promises are steadfast. Trust in His faithfulness, and let His word shape your heart and life.
June 19
2 Kings 13
2 Chronicles 24:23-27
God’s Limitless Love
In today’s Bible passages, we encounter the end of Jehoahaz’s reign and the beginning of Jehoash’s rule in Israel, alongside the continuation of Joash’s story in Judah. Jehoahaz did evil in the Lord’s sight, leading to Israel’s defeat by King Hazael and Ben-Hadad. However, when Jehoahaz prayed for mercy, God listened but the people continued to sin. His son, Jehoash, followed in his father’s footsteps and refused to turn from Jeroboam’s sins.
Back in Judah, King Joash’s story ends tragically as he attempts to bargain with King Hazael by sending treasures from the temple, only to be defeated by the Arameans. His advisors then plot and succeed in taking his life.
In the midst of this, we also witness a poignant moment as the prophet Elisha nears death. King Joash visits Elisha, who gives him prophetic instructions involving arrows, symbolizing victories over Aram. Joash’s limited obedience results in only three victories, showcasing the impact of his actions. After Elisha’s death, a miracle occurs when a dead man revives upon touching Elisha’s bones, displaying God’s enduring power and compassion towards Israel despite their disobedience.
Word of the Day: Limit
Limit – a restriction on the size or amount of something permissible or possible.
Reflection
Today’s readings reveal the limits of human actions contrasted with the limitless love and mercy of God. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel’s kings, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His anger is tempered by His promises, showing that while human actions may be flawed and limited, God’s faithfulness remains steadfast.
Joash and Jehoahaz had opportunities to fully turn to God, but their commitments were limited, leading to partial victories and continued struggles. This serves as a reminder of the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. The story of Elisha and Joash emphasizes how limited actions can affect the extent of God’s blessings and victories in our lives.
Application: True Obedience and Lasting Conviction
The narratives of these kings teach us valuable lessons on obedience and spiritual leadership. Joash did what was right while Jehoiada was alive, but strayed once he was gone. This shift underscores the necessity of instilling lasting spiritual values rather than relying on external guidance.
We too risk losing our spiritual bearings if we depend solely on external authorities. It’s crucial to develop a personal, heartfelt relationship with God, ensuring our actions align with His will out of genuine conviction.
Personal Takeaway
The stories of Jehoahaz, Jehoash, and Joash highlight the limits of human effort but also the limitless nature of God’s love and mercy. Despite their failures, God remained faithful to His covenant. This reminds us that, even when we fall short, we can trust in God’s unfailing love and compassion.
Let’s strive to cultivate deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into the limitless grace and mercy of God. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
June 20
2 Kings 14:1-27
2 Chronicles 25
2 Kings 13:12-13
2 Kings 15:1-5
2 Chronicles 26:1-21
Jonah 1-4
Awestruck by God’s Power
The Reigns of Amaziah and Uzziah
We begin with King Amaziah of Judah, who started his reign at the age of 25 and ruled for 29 years. Amaziah initially followed God’s ways but failed to completely eradicate idolatry from the land. He achieved military victories, such as defeating the Edomites and capturing Petra. However, after bringing home idols and worshipping them, God sent a prophet to question his actions, asking, “Why do you turn to gods who could not even save their own people from you?”
Amaziah’s pride led him to provoke Jehoash, king of Israel, resulting in a disastrous defeat for Judah. This loss included the destruction of Jerusalem’s walls and the loss of treasures from the royal palace. Amaziah’s reign ended in assassination, leading to his son Azariah (Uzziah) taking the throne at 16. Uzziah ruled for 52 years, achieving military victories and strengthening Jerusalem’s defenses because he sought God.
However, Uzziah’s pride led to his downfall. He unlawfully entered the temple to burn incense, and God struck him with leprosy, which afflicted him until his death.
God’s Call for Jonah
Jonah first appears during Jeroboam II’s reign, prophesying the restoration of Israel’s boundaries. But in the Book of Jonah, God commands him to go to Nineveh and rebuke their wickedness. Jonah’s reluctance and subsequent flight lead to a storm, his being thrown overboard, and swallowed by a large fish. After three days, Jonah prays and is delivered.
Jonah obeys God’s command to go to Nineveh, proclaiming its impending destruction. The people, including the king, repent, leading God to spare the city. Jonah, upset by God’s mercy, experiences God’s lesson in compassion through a plant providing him shade and then dying.
Word of the Day: Awestruck
Awestruck – filled with or revealing awe.
“The sailors were awestruck by the Lord’s great power.”
The pagan sailors, who didn’t know the One true Creator, were awestruck by God’s power. Jonah, chosen by God, was bitter and wanted to die.
Reflection
Today’s readings contrast the limits of human actions with the limitless love and mercy of God. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel’s kings, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His anger is tempered by His promises, showing that while human actions may be flawed and limited, God’s faithfulness remains steadfast.
Joash and Jehoahaz had opportunities to fully turn to God, but their commitments were limited, leading to partial victories and continued struggles. This serves as a reminder of the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. The story of Elisha and Joash emphasizes how limited actions can affect the extent of God’s blessings and victories in our lives.
Personal Takeaway
Jonah and Uzziah’s stories highlight the consequences of pride and disobedience. Jonah resisted God’s call due to personal prejudice, while Uzziah’s pride led to his downfall. Both experienced God’s power in ways they didn’t desire. However, their stories remind us to be awestruck by God’s work and give Him glory.
These are the three choices we face today:
- To serve God, see Him at work, and give God glory.
- To know God can work but fight against Him.
- To serve God and then take the glory for ourselves.
Jonah was awestruck by the whale, and Uzziah was awestruck by his leprosy. They saw God’s power but not in the ways they wanted. A better choice is to join God in His work and give Him glory for His accomplishments.
Let’s strive to cultivate deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions, recognize our human limitations, and lean into the limitless grace and mercy of God. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
June 21
Amos 1-6
The Sovereignty of God:
Lessons from the Book of Amos
Today, we dive into the book of Amos, a prophet called by God to deliver a message to the Northern Kingdom around 760-753 BC. Although Amos was from a village near Bethlehem in Judah, his prophetic ministry targeted the Northern Kingdom. Amos, whose name means “burden bearer,” was a shepherd and fig farmer before he became a prophet. His message to a materially prosperous Israel was one of judgment for their injustice towards the poor and their betrayal of God’s covenant.
Amos 1-3
In the opening chapters, Amos pronounces judgments on neighboring nations—Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, and Moab—condemning them for various transgressions like cruelty and betrayal. He then turns his attention to Judah and Israel, highlighting their rejection of God’s law and their numerous offenses, including oppression of the poor and idolatry. God’s chosen people, Israel, are particularly targeted, with Amos emphasizing their unique relationship with God and the impending punishment for their sins.
Amos 4-6: God’s Call for Repentance
Israel is warned that their continued sin will lead to severe consequences. God recounts the plagues and disasters He has already sent as warnings, urging them to return to Him. Despite these warnings, Israel’s arrogance persists. Amos delivers a stark message: “Prepare to meet your God in judgment.” Yet, there is a call to repentance: “Come back to me and live! Don’t worship at the pagan altars, come back to the Lord and live.” God despises Israel’s arrogance and their false sense of security, warning of the sorrow that awaits them.
Word of the Day: Sovereign
Sovereign – God’s sovereignty is His absolute right to do all things according to His own good pleasure. It means that God is in all and over all.
Creative Sovereignty: God is the Lord of creation, guiding His creation toward a meaningful end. His creativity holds promise and purpose.
Moral Sovereignty: God’s authority is grounded in His moral nature. He is to be obeyed not simply because He is mighty, but because He is righteous. His judgments are based on His profound moral character.
Transcendent Sovereignty: God’s ways are beyond our complete comprehension. He works in ways that humans do not always understand.
Purposeful Sovereignty: God’s actions move towards a specific purpose, as seen in Amos. God’s sovereignty is purposeful and intentional.
Reflection
The book of Amos highlights the limits of human actions and the limitless nature of God’s love and mercy. Despite the continual sin and partial obedience of Israel, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. His anger is tempered by His promises, showing that while human actions may be flawed and limited, God’s faithfulness remains steadfast.
Personal Takeaway
The people of Israel were repeatedly warned, yet they ignored the prophets’ blunt messages. God’s sovereignty means He cannot let sin go on unpunished, but it also means He continually reaches out to His people, desiring their return to righteousness. God’s call to Amos, a humble shepherd and fig farmer, underscores that He uses ordinary people to accomplish His purposes.
Application:
- Recognize God’s Sovereignty: God is in control over all creation, and His plans are purposeful and good.
- Respond to God’s Call: Just as Amos was called from his ordinary life, be open to how God might use you to deliver His message.
- Return to God: No matter how far we stray, God’s invitation to return to Him stands. He desires our repentance and wholehearted devotion.
As we reflect on these passages, let’s strive to cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into the limitless grace and mercy of God. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
June 22
Amos 7-9
2 Kings 14:28-29
2 Kings 15:6-29
2 Chronicles 26:22-23
Isaiah 6:1-13
Rebuilding and Restoration:
Insights from Amos and Isaiah
Visions of Amos
Amos 7: God gives Amos visions of judgment, starting with a swarm of locusts and a great fire, both threatening to devastate Israel. Amos pleads for mercy, and God relents. In a third vision, God shows Amos a plumb line, symbolizing His standard of righteousness, and declares that He will no longer ignore Israel’s sins. Despite warnings, King Jeroboam expels Amos from Israel, but Amos stands firm, predicting exile for Israel.
Amos 8: Amos sees a basket of ripe fruit, symbolizing Israel’s readiness for judgment. God declares a famine of hearing His words and lists Israel’s sins, predicting widespread death and desolation.
Amos 9: Amos sees God standing by the altar, declaring unavoidable judgment but promising not to completely destroy Israel. God assures a future restoration: “I will bring my exiled people of Israel back from distant lands, and they will rebuild their ruined cities.”
Reigns of Israel and Judah’s Kings
2 Kings 14:28-29, 2 Kings 15:6-29, 2 Chronicles 26:22-23: These passages recount the reigns of Jeroboam II, Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, and Pekah in Israel, highlighting their evil actions and the resulting challenges, including assassinations. In Judah, Azariah (Uzziah) reigns successfully but falls due to pride, leading to his death by leprosy.
Isaiah Following God’s Call
Isaiah 6:1-13: Isaiah’s profound vision of the Lord on His throne, surrounded by seraphim, fills him with awe and a sense of unworthiness. An angel purifies Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal, symbolizing cleansing. God commissions Isaiah to be His messenger, predicting that Israel will be unresponsive but assuring that a remnant will remain.
Word of the Day: Rebuild
Rebuild: to build (something) again after it has been damaged or destroyed. Reconstruct, renovate, restore.
God promises to restore His people. In Amos 9, He declares, “I will bring my exiled people of Israel back from distant lands, and they will rebuild their ruined cities.” Just like an HGTV makeover, God’s restoration involves creativity, expertise, and love, transforming what was once broken into something beautiful and strong.
Reflection
The book of Amos and Isaiah’s vision highlight God’s sovereignty and His relentless commitment to restoration. Despite Israel’s continuous sin, God’s compassion endures, rooted in His covenant. His anger is balanced by His promises, showcasing His limitless love and mercy.
Personal Takeaway
Isaiah’s calling shows that even ordinary people, like shepherds and fig farmers, can be chosen to deliver God’s message. Isaiah’s vision of God’s glory gave him the strength to fulfill his mission, reminding us that seeing God’s greatness can inspire and sustain us.
Application:
- Recognize God’s Sovereignty: Trust that God is in control over all creation, and His plans are purposeful and good.
- Respond to God’s Call: Be open to how God might use you to deliver His message, just as He called Amos and Isaiah.
- Return to God: No matter how far we stray, God’s invitation to return to Him stands. He desires our repentance and wholehearted devotion.
Let’s strive to cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into the limitless grace and mercy of God. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
June 23
2 Kings 15:32-38
2 Chronicles 27:1-9
Micah 1:1-16
2 Kings 16:1-9
2 Chronicles 28:1-15
Isaiah 7:1-25
The Fire of Judgment and
Promise of Restoration
The Reign of Jotham
2 Kings 15:32-38, 2 Chronicles 27:1-9: Jotham, son of Azariah (Uzziah), became king of Judah and ruled for 16 years. He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, fortifying cities and successfully battling the Ammonites, who paid tribute to him. His reign was marked by prosperity and stability due to his faithfulness to God. “King Jotham became powerful because he was careful to live in obedience to the Lord his God” (2 Chronicles 27:6). After his death, his son Ahaz became king.
The Prophecy of Micah
Micah 1:1-16: Micah prophesied during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, addressing the sins of Samaria (Israel) and Jerusalem (Judah). He warned of the impending destruction due to idolatry, corruption, and oppression. His vivid imagery of God’s judgment highlights the consequences of disobedience: “The Sovereign LORD is making accusations against you; the Lord speaks from his holy Temple. Look! The LORD is coming! He leaves his throne in heaven and tramples the heights of the earth” (Micah 1:2-3).
The Reign of Ahaz
2 Kings 16:1-9, 2 Chronicles 28:1-15: Ahaz, son of Jotham, ruled Judah but did evil, even sacrificing his own son. Attacked by King Rezin of Aram and King Pekah of Israel, Ahaz suffered defeats as God allowed his enemies to prevail. Despite these defeats, God’s prophet Oded intervened, leading to the release of captives and the return of plunder.
The Vision and Following God’s Call
Isaiah 7:1-25: Amidst this turmoil, God sent Isaiah to Ahaz with a message of reassurance. Despite Ahaz’s refusal to seek a sign, God promised a miraculous sign: “The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us’)” (Isaiah 7:14). This prophecy, though given to an unfaithful king, heralds hope and redemption.
Word of the Day: Fire
Fire: combustion or burning. Represents both judgment and purification.
Reflection
In today’s reading, we see the fire of judgment and the promise of restoration. Micah’s vision depicts God’s fiery judgment due to Israel’s sins: “Look! The LORD is coming! He leaves his throne in heaven and tramples the heights of the earth. The mountains melt beneath his feet and flow into the valleys like wax in a fire” (Micah 1:3-4).
We also witness the horrific worship of Molech involving child sacrifice, as practiced by King Ahaz: “Ahaz…sacrificed his own son in the fire” (2 Kings 16:3). This starkly contrasts with God’s righteous judgment and the ultimate fire of judgment described in 2 Peter 3:10-14, urging us to live holy and godly lives.
Despite these fiery judgments, God’s promise of restoration shines through. In Amos 9, He declares, “I will bring my exiled people of Israel back from distant lands, and they will rebuild their ruined cities.” God’s restoration is like an HGTV makeover—transforming what was broken into something beautiful and strong, filled with love and purpose.
Personal Takeaway
Isaiah’s calling shows that even ordinary people can be chosen to deliver God’s message. His vision of God’s glory gave him the strength to fulfill his mission, reminding us that seeing God’s greatness can inspire and sustain us.
Application:
- Recognize God’s Sovereignty: Trust that God is in control over all creation, and His plans are purposeful and good.
- Respond to God’s Call: Be open to how God might use you to deliver His message, just as He called Isaiah and Micah.
- Return to God: No matter how far we stray, God’s invitation to return to Him stands. He desires our repentance and wholehearted devotion.
Let’s strive to cultivate a deep, personal devotion to God, allowing His word to guide our actions. Recognize our human limitations and lean into the limitless grace and mercy of God. Trust that when we turn to Him, He will show up, ready to restore and bless us beyond our limitations.
