Daily Reading // Isaiah 15:1-16:13
READY // SILENCIO
Take a moment to quiet your mind and prepare your heart for your time with the Lord.
READ // LECTIO
Read the passage above up to three times aloud. Allow yourself to feel the words as they are read.
REFLECT // MEDITATIO
Now direct your focus on the words, phrases concepts or sentences that got your attention. What is God speaking to you today through His word?
Isaiah 16:5 In mercy the throne will be established; And One will sit on it in truth, in the tabernacle of David, Judging and seeking justice and hastening righteousness."
God can show mercy. God can never be shown mercy. As a boy, a bigger boy could pin you to the ground, sit on your stomach, and tap on your chest until you ask for mercy by saying ‘uncle’. God never has to say ‘uncle’. His throne is established by mercy. Not that He needs to receive mercy, but that He freely gives it. His power isn’t used to bully, but to set me free from the bully. Sometimes the one I need rescuing from is me.
Feeling self-bullied? Receive His mercy.
1 John 3:20 (NKJV) For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things.
RESPOND // ORATIO
Pray in response to what the Lord has spoken to you.
God, Today I thank You for two things: Your strength and Your mercy. Your strength would be dreadful without Your mercy. Grant me mercy today, Lord, I need it. With Your mercy, nothing can overwhelm me. Amen!
Tomorrow’s reading -> Isaiah 17:1-14
My version uses the word “love” in place of mercy. Expands even more on what Pastor Jim said and deepens the meaning of mercy reminding us that love is at the heart of God. 💜
I'm super enjoying Pastor Jim's blogs. Just the right length to read during a break. Always insightful and encouraging. "Hearing" Jim's "voice" through this time of social distancing helps me feel connected still.