We’re halfway through This Is the Old Testament, our thematic overview of the Old Testament. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we’ll finish our look at the books of Wisdom Literature and begin the last sections of the Old Testament, the Major and Minor Prophets.
What Is Isaiah? This book is a record of Isaiah’s prophecies concerning the nation of Judah’s rebellion against God, His coming judgment, and the call for them to repent and turn back to Him. It also includes a promise of restoration and prophecies of a coming Servant King who will bear their sins.
How Isaiah Fits Into the Story: The first part of Isaiah emphasizes sin, the call to repentance, and judgment; the second emphasizes the hope of restoration. Many readers are drawn to Isaiah for the passages describing a future Messiah and those describing the Suffering Servant. But a full reading of the book enriches our understanding of how these prophecies, and more, are fulfilled in Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Suffering Servant.
Reflection Questions:
1. List some of the promises God makes in Isaiah 43:1–13. Which ones resonate with you the most? Why do you think that is?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
I was so encouraged by verse 1: “you are mine.” In a world where it seems like I’m constantly seeking approval & validation from others, this verse reminds me that I already belong & no longer need to “find my place” so to speak.
@Ashley – I’m sorry. So hard. Whispering a prayer for you, your family and his wife and daughter. ❤️
@Angie – “it’s never too early or late to start”
Thank you! I need to try again to add this to my prayer life. It hasn’t stuck, and I want to pray more for my girls.
Please pray for me and my family. My brother died one month ago, and his funeral is tomorrow. He was 30 left behind a wife and 3-year-old daughter.
❤️
Kaitlin Schroeder – celebrating with you at God’s mercy to you and your boyfriend’s life! Prayers will continue.
Kelly thanks for helping me understand it better.
Amen Blessed Beth, Pam C. and Audren Amen
Taylor praying for you and sometimes being by yourself – just you and God – can be the best thing, it might help you do some soul searching.
Lauren praying for you. You are so right that He is right there no matter what you are going through.
Katie Latham you are so right with God and Christ all things are possible.
Angie thank you for the reminder to pray for my son and for other family members that need it.
Maura what you said was so powerful loved it.
A M and AG you are so right He doesn’t take away the hard times but He will be there with us through them and after them.
Carleigh Bright your comments have allowed me to understand even better the Scriptures for today. Thank you.
Kaitlin Schroeder God does answer prayers and is great. So glad to hear the great news.
The parts of the passage that stuck out most to me was that I am precious in God’s sight, and He is always with me. These are such great reminders in this life!