This week we are going to continue in our series on Isaiah. You will hear some very familiar texts this week, especially if you are a Christmas in June inclined person like me. There are two pretty famous references from Isaiah, we will be looking at the first. Take time to read and digest Isaiah 9:1-7.
Isaiah 9
New International Version
1 Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan—
2 The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
3 You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder.
4 For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor.
5 Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.
A. In Verses 1-5 we see a stark difference between life before and life to come. Which image strikes you the strongest? Why do you think so?
*** Pray that God might distinguish light from darkness in your life***
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
B. In verse 6, do you notice the present tense language and then the future language, but they seem to be speaking about the same event? Do you find that type of language particularly compelling?
***Pray that God might lay promises and see them come to pass in your life***
7 Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
C. In verse 7, we get the kingly announcement of the coming Christ. Read this 5-10 times, each time, focus on a different word or phrase. Which part comes the most alive for you?
**Pray that God might take the throne of your life and ask that He might do that forever***