Isaiah 50 - 10.6.25
Scripture
Isaiah 50:4
The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed.
Observation
This chapter compares Israel’s sin to an obedient Servant. The obedient Servant is a foreshadowing of Christ.
Biblehub.com summarizes this chapter very well:
“Isaiah 50 provides a profound message of courage, obedience, and ultimate trust in God's salvation. As exemplified by the Servant, one can endure sufferings and hardships by relying on God's unending help. The chapter warns against self-reliance and disobedience, reminding us that real strength and salvation come from God alone. In our darkest times, let's remember the Servant's resolve, echoing his courage and faithfulness in our own lives. The Servant of the Lord is obedient and steadfast despite suffering. This Servant is a foreshadowing of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled this role.“
Application
Be an obedient servant in the midst of suffering, just like Jesus modeled for us.
It’s easy to be an obedient servant when things are going well in life, but how about in the midst of suffering and trials?
I am reminded of Jesus’ humanity when He knew He was going to suffer on the cross. He asked God to take the cup of suffering away from Him. But then, He said, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
As I’ve been reading in 1 Peter, there have already been 4 separate chapters (which I’ve personally journaled on) with the theme of suffering and trials. Suffering and Trials are part of the Christian life. When we encounter suffering, we must continue to remain steadfast in Christ.
1 Peter 2:15, 20-23 NIV-“For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.”
1 Peter 3:13-14, 17-18 NIV-“Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.”
1 Peter 4:9- So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
1 Peter 5:8-11 -8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11 To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Prayer
Dear Jesus,
You were the perfect model of an obedient servant. I pray that I would always look to Your example whenever I need direction for my life, especially in the midst of trials and suffering. You washed Your enemies’ feet, You healed them, You ate with sinners, You submitted to the Father in the midst of suffering and trial to the point of death, You were well versed in God’s Word and You often withdrew to lonely places to be with the Father (Luke 5:16). You remained faithful, courageous and suffered well. Thank You for setting such a great model of what a servant looks like. May I always follow after Your example Lord. Amen.
-Michelle Gaddi