Isaiah 35:1
The scripture for today is Isaiah 35:1
Isaiah 35:1 The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose.
The thirty-fourth and thirty-fifth chapters of Isaiah form one prophecy. In it, God pronounces judgment against those who are enemies of Israel, represented by Edom. The promise of God is that Israel (His church) shall be delivered from all its foes. The desert place “shall rejoice and blossom as the rose.”
While the transgressions of God’s people ultimately led to their suffering, God never abandoned them. His enemies, who rejoiced in the oppression of His people, were short-sighted. They assumed that their own power and strength were the greater force and did not understand that it was God at work to execute His judgment, allowing His rebellious people to fall prey to their oppressions.
When the people of God turn from their sins and run to Him for refuge, God, who is compassionate and forgiving, always brings deliverance. He will not allow the enemy to lord it over His people who humble themselves before Him in repentance, seeking His mercy.
“We cannot save ourselves from the tempter's power; he has conquered humanity, and when we try to stand in our own strength, we shall become a prey to his devices; but "the name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe." Proverbs 18:10. Satan trembles and flees before the weakest soul who finds refuge in that mighty name.” Ellen White, Desire of Ages, p. 130
As we turn to the Lord with all of our hearts, the dry places of our souls will become lush gardens of joy, experiencing the fulfillment of the promises of God.
“To everyone who offers himself to the Lord for service, withholding nothing, is given power for the attainment of measureless results. For these God will do great things. He will work upon the minds of men so that, even in this world, there shall be seen in their lives a fulfillment of the promise of the future state.” Ellen White, The Ministry of Healing, p. 160
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim