GOD’S SHEPHERD

Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, in His arm He will gather the lambs and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes, Isaiah 40:11.

The Book of Isaiah contains both judgment and promise. 

The Book of Isaiah is one of my favorite books in the Old Testament. Early in my recovery journey, I found myself drawn to it. There are so many powerful verses. Uplifting and beautiful in the promises they provide.

My soul was thirsting during that time. More so than it ever had. I identified with the first chapters of Isaiah so readily. I was lost in sin, estranged from God, and plagued by darkness. My only escape had been found at the bottom of the bottle for so long. 

I felt unworthy of God’s forgiveness and grace. But, the deeper I went into the Book of Isaiah, the more I understood the nature of God’s mercy. 

God planned for our redemption because He knew we’d fall. 

God’s promise to us is found in the second half of Isaiah. Where the first half tells the story of our separation from God through our sins and apathy, the second half reveals His plan for our redemption. 

It is in chapter 40 that Isaiah prophesies a coming Messiah, the promised Shepherd of Israel, who would be sent to save God’s people from their sins.

The great comfort I received in the revelations of Isaiah was a turning point in my recovery. Rather than condemnation, I found the beautiful unfolding of God’s gracious character and plan of salvation revealed through His prophet. 

Isaiah’s words reminded me that Jesus Christ is the promised Shepherd of God’s people. And that through His sacrifice we are all worthy of God’s never-ending well of GRACE, including me. 

You say You love me,

and I ask You why?

“I love you so much, child, 

I sent My Son to die.”

You say You need me,

and I ask You how.

“I gave My all for you, child, 

place your faith in Me now.”

You say You’re holding me,

yet, I don’t understand.

“Just be still and trust Me, 

believe that I Am.”

You say the darkness,

will end with the dawn

That You stand beside me.

I’m wrapped in Your arms.

You say there’s no distance,

that can keep me from You

That instead of the ninety,

You came for the few.

The few who are broken,

and lost in defeat

You say, “Come My child,

lay it all at My feet.”

You say, “Just meet Me, child,

I’ll carry your load.

Surrender it all to Me,

In My grace, you are clothed.”

You say, “Just follow Me.

Come just as you are.

I’ll take every sorrow,

and heal every scar.”

You say You love me.

And I ask You, still?

“My child, My love is fathomless,

so come to the well.”

You say You see me,

and I reach out my hand,

clinging to Your presence,

with all that I am.

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JN Fenwick (© 2018-2024) | mothjournal14