the Fourth Week after Easter
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Daily Devotionals
Day by Day Devotional - Year 3 of 5
Isaiah 56:1 to ; Isaiah 57:2; Isaiah 57:15-21
These two chapters evoke a dark moment in the future history of Israel. The bulk of the people led astray by blind watchmen (v. 10 . . .) will follow after the Anti-Christ (the king, Isaiah 57:9). Throughout this time God’s eyes are upon His faithful, who keep His sabbaths, and He encourages them by His promises. Having been profaned, the temple is presently in ruins. But it will resume its name and character — a "house of prayer" for the joy of this remnant. Moreover it will be open "for all people" (Isaiah 56:7). Christian friends, we have access at all times to God for prayer and praise. Let us make use of this privilege!
Isaiah 57:1-2 shows us the true meaning of the death of righteous and of "merciful men". God is taking them away from the judgments prepared for other men (1 Kings 14:12-13).
"I create the fruit of the lips" declares the LORD (Isaiah 57:19). Hebrews 13:15 explains this as the "sacrifice of praise". Addressed to God, such sacrifices are produced by Him, through His Spirit in the hearts of His own.
Finally v. 20 draws a quick sketch of the mad restlessness of the wicked and its consequences. Jude completes the picture by comparing them with "raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame" (Judges 1:13).
