In Isaiah 8, God reveals to Isaiah that difficult times are imminent. Continuing from Isaiah 7, where God assured King Ahaz of Judah that Syria and Israel would not succeed in their attack, God now announces judgment against these nations. God illustrates His care for Judah with a metaphor: “My care for the people of Judah is like the gently flowing waters of Shiloah, but they have rejected it... Therefore, the Lord will overwhelm them with a mighty flood from the Euphrates River—the king of Assyria and all his glory... This flood will overflow all its channels and sweep into Judah until it is chin deep” (Isaiah 8:6-8).

Isaiah urges the people to sanctify the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, trust in Him, and avoid the ways of nations that consult the dead or seek advice from mediums. Despite impending judgment, hope is promised: “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light” (Isaiah 9:2).

Isaiah 9 continues with a prophetic promise of hope and restoration, often celebrated during Christmas: “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

The chapter also addresses God’s anger against Israel for their continuous sin under evil kings. Despite their wickedness, God promises deliverance through the coming Messiah.

Isaiah 10 shifts focus to the judgment of Assyria. Despite being used by God to discipline Israel, Assyria’s arrogance and oppression will lead to their downfall. God declares: “A remnant will return; yes, the remnant of Jacob will return to the Mighty God” (Isaiah 10:21).

Isaiah 11 introduces the Messiah, described as a "Branch" from the stump of Jesse. This Messiah will be endowed with the Spirit of the Lord, bringing wisdom, understanding, and justice. The peaceful reign of the Messiah is depicted, where natural enemies live in harmony, and the earth is filled with the knowledge of the Lord. The Messiah will gather the dispersed people of Israel and restore them to their land.

Word of the Day: Stumble - to bumble, careen, fall, falter, or flounder.

Isaiah 8:13-15: “The LORD Almighty is the one you are to regard as holy... He will be a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.”

Matthew 21:43-44: “Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”

Isaiah 9:6-7: “For a child is born to us... And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Luke 2:34: “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise.”

1 Corinthians 1:22-24: “Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles.”

The concept of stumbling recurs throughout Scripture, particularly regarding Jesus Christ. For those who reject Him, He becomes a stumbling block. However, for those who believe, He is the cornerstone of life. This dichotomy challenges us to confront our beliefs and either stumble in rejection or stand firm in faith.

May we choose to stand on Him as our firm foundation.

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