Isaiah 45:19

Alfred Shropshire Isaiah 45:19

I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, seek ye me in vain: I the Lord speak righteousness; I declare things that are right.

Isaiah reminded the people of Judah that God is the Lord of history and has a plan for his people. With humans in mind, God created the heavens and made the earth a firm and lasting dwelling place. God has spoken openly to his people, through their priests and prophets, about their mission to be a light to all nations, who will be blessed through Israel.

When God said, "seek me, and be saved," his commitment to do right is revealed in salvation of sinners as well as his judgment of sin. God has chosen and loves his people. He will be true to his love for us, despite our failures. His word will bring shame to those who rage against God, glory to those who believe.

The psalmist said God's word was "a lamp unto my feet, and a guide to my path" (Psalm 119: 105). Suppose the world were a dark place at night and we depended on the flickering light cast by the olive oil lamp of Bible times. That lamp was only bright enough to show a traveler his next step. Scripture is such a lamp. It gives us just enough light to see where to place our feet so we can walk safely into our future. The believer does not need a searchlight that illuminates the coming weeks or years. That is in God's hands. All we need is enough light to make sure that the next step we take is just and right.

Prayer: 'Precious Lord, I love your name. When I look back from whence I came; sometimes stumbling, sometimes falling, sometimes alone. Friends and loved ones I love so dear, many are gone, but I'm still here: take my hand, precious Lord, and lead me on." *

*(Verse 4 of Precious Lord, Take My Hand by Thomas Dorsey)