Read: Isaiah 56-61
These chapters were written by the prophet Isaiah during the 8th century BCE, addressing the people of Judah during both social and religious decline.
In Isaiah 56, we are reminded that all of us are “eligible,” so to say, for God’s salvation. Thinking of this today, no matter what sins you have committed, if you repent, truly turn away, God will welcome you with open arms. That doesn’t mean that we should take advantage of that grace. We should still strive to follow the Word of God, be in relationship with Him always, and do what is just and right. Just because our sins can be forgiven doesn’t mean we should continue sinning without care. God invites us to repent. It is never too late to return to God or to run to Him for the first time. How comforting is it to know that we are all invited in; that we all have a place in God’s house.
“My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” –Isaiah 56:7
In Isaiah 58, we are called to honor and keep the Sabbath holy. I believe this can look a little different depending on your personal conviction, when and how you observe it, but the heart behind it matters most. Try adding it into your life in a way that allows you to truly rest, spend time with God, and honor what He calls His people to. We are called to live in obedience to the Lord, not just outwardly, but in how we live and love others.
“If you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord’s holy day honorable … then you will find your joy in the Lord.” -Isaiah 58:13–14
The problem with sin is that the more we continue in it, the further it can distance us in our relationship with God. We are called to live differently, differently than the rest of the world. Called to care for others, to pursue justice, and to follow God even while living in a very worldly world.
In Isaiah 59, we are reminded that sin separates us from God. We are also given the promise of a Savior to save us from our sin. In that, we can place our hope. Throughout the Bible, we see over and over again that we can stand on the promises of God. One of those promises is Christ, our Savior, who died for our sins to save us. Another promise is Christ’s return one day. Because God has proven Himself faithful time and time again, we can trust that He will fulfill every promise He has made. One day, in heaven, we will experience true joy, peace, righteousness, and glory.
“They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads.” –Isaiah 61:10
Discussion Question
- What are you most looking forward to about the promise of heaven?
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A Note from the Author
Hello everyone,
I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about the Bible verse studies, devotionals, and prayers that I put together. While I strive to offer meaningful insights and reflections, it’s important to clarify that I am not a trained or licensed biblical professional. My goal is not to provide expert theological advice but to share my personal knowledge, beliefs, and experiences as I read and reflect on the Holy Bible.
The insights I offer come from my own understanding and spiritual journey. I approach these reflections with the intention of sharing what personally resonates with me, what I’ve learned through my own study of Scripture, and what the Holy Spirit is sharing through me. I hope these thoughts are helpful and encouraging, but they are based on my personal perspective rather than formal theological training.
This specific Bible study is based off the book A Beautiful Year in the Bible The 52-Week Bible Study for Women by a series of wonderful authors Copyrighted by Alabaster Creative Inc. I do not own the rights to this book and am not claiming to. I am using the book to create my own version of the Bible in 365 days and continue to direct God’s word towards women, more specifically mothers.
Thank you for your understanding and for joining me in this journey of faith and reflection.
Blessings,
Maria Wilcoxon
*The header image is not mine and was taken from Pinterest
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