VII.We have spent time this week considering fasting and how it calls attention to behaviors we should not practice and behaviors we should practice. Keeping in mind the lifestyle recommended here, pay attention to two other images presented here, that … Continue reading
IV.Take some time to read (and probably reread) this passage from Isaiah. Think of it as being spoken to you. As this is addressed to you, what holds your attention the most. You might think of it as what has … Continue reading
I.This week’s focus passage begins with a redefinition of what kind of fast is acceptable to God. As you begin your time with these words, take note of what the people are called to eliminate from their lives. II.Isaiah 58:6-10 … Continue reading
VII.Can you remember hearing, “Why are you always so hardheaded?” Did you hear someone say it to someone in your presence? Was it said to you? Did you say it to someone? Why was it said? What was the intent … Continue reading
IV.Can you recall someone who struck you as “obstinate”? Maybe even someone you would characterize as having an “obstinate” personality? For that matter, might someone think you could be “obstinate”? Apparently God has reason to see his people as being … Continue reading
I.Notice how this selection from the Prophet Isaiah ends, Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel:I am the Lord your God, who teaches you how to succeed, who leads you in the way you should go. As you read … Continue reading
VII.As you have read this passage did you notice, “You are my witnesses, says the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen so that …”? So who are we? So what follows if we are chosen servants? As you … Continue reading
IV.In this passage we hear, “For I am the Lord your God …” As you take time to reread and hear these words a couple of more times, what do they tell you about “the Lord your God”? V.Isaiah 43:1-12 … Continue reading
I.Here we are at the beginning of a “new” year. Right? This past Sunday was “New Year’s Day.” It must have been so – didn’t we hear fireworks as the new year arrived? I wonder, are the fireworks to celebrate … Continue reading
VII.Once again hear Isaiah ask the people to “Listen … Look.” Do you know people who when asked to “look” notice first the discouraging things and others who notice first the encouraging things? As you listen to Isaiah, do you … Continue reading