Swhw Bible Reading Plan: AprilSample

Top Takeaway from Jessica Hottle:

When we read Isaiah 20-24 without any context, it can be hard to follow. It looks like a lot of destruction, which can lead us down the path of thinking, "What kind of God does this?" 

However, when we begin to learn these letters' context, it brings great comfort to those reading them. The kings of Babylon were great oppressors and enemies of God's people. Many neighboring regions would be afraid of them so they would submit to them. 

Letters, like those found in Isaiah 20-24, would bring comfort about deliverance. To bring visual awareness, a sign of the prophecy, Isaiah walked around almost naked and barefoot as if he was a poor captive (Isaiah 20:2-3).

There are two things I want to point out when reading Chapters 20-24. 

1. God always takes care of His people in time. 
2. There are times when outwardly we may look foolish to the world, but the call is higher than ourselves and appearance. 

Are we willing to walk around as Isaiah did? Do we trust God takes care of us when it seems like everything around us is spinning out of control?

They didn't have all of God's Word from beginning to end as we do. The Bible is our letter of comfort in hard and good times. God promises He is always there, never leaves us, and plans our life with detail as a spider to their web. 

God doesn't forget about His people who faithfully serve and follow Him. Let’s allow God's Word to bring comfort to our weary souls when things don't seem to make sense and when we don't understand. Our job isn't to reason; it's to follow. 

Father, thank You for continually guiding us into truth and leading us there with love. Thank You for bringing comfort to the areas we don't understand because we know You do. Apart from You, we are nothing! We love You, Amen!