Isaiah 44
-Much of the language of chapter
44 is a reiteration of God’s calm assurance to His people (see notes on Isaiah
41 & 43). He promises to pour out living water (John 4:10-15; 7:37-39) on the
thirsty land and streams on the dry ground. It is His Spirit that He will pour
out on their offspring, and He will bless their descendants (Isaiah 44:3). His
people will claim the LORD as their own and call upon His Name (Isaiah 44:5).
There is none other besides the LORD for creation, stability, easing fear, and
continuance. *Application* God wants desperately to pour out His Spirit into
His children. He is the One we can cling to for salvation. He will come in and
take up residence within us by His indwelling Presence when we open up the door
of our heart to His grace and mercy (Revelation 3:20). Belong to the LORD!
-The folly of idolatry is
expanded in the verses from 9-20. All who trust in graven images put their
faith in futility, which are of no eternal profit. Even their own witnesses
fail to see or know. They will be put to shame (Isaiah 44:9-11). Idols are manmade
by weakness and natural means. Though man worships it, it has dual purpose for
making fire to eat food. Idols have no power for deliverance, they do not know
anything, they cannot understand, they cannot comprehend, and they deceive the
hearts of those who turn to them for help. *Application* God is completely
rational and the wise man will turn to Him as the only hope for salvation and complete
clarity in human existence.
-In light of all that has been
stated, the prophet, in poetic language again reiterates the exclusivity of the
LORD as Redeemer and Forgiver. He is the One who can give joy, and He is the
only One who deserves ultimate glory. He makes fools out of diviners and the
worldly wise. He confirms His Word with His servant, the true prophet, and He
performs the purpose of His messengers. The LORD will have the final say as to
the habitation of Jerusalem, the building of the cities of Judah, the depth of
the sea and rivers, the world leaders (the name Cyrus is accurately mentioned
here 150 years before he ruled), and the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the Temple
(Isaiah 44:24-28). Isaiah accurately predicted the fall of Jerusalem 100 years
before it actually happened and that the Temple would be rebuilt 200 years
before it happened. It should be clear to us that this messenger was a true
prophet called by the God who knows the future. *Application* God doesn’t do
anything unless it is first revealed by the prophets (Amos 3:7). Search His
Scriptures to know what will happen in the coming days. It is written.
Verse to Memorize: Isaiah 44:3
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