His Delight

In midst of a culture of rebellion, idolatry, abandonment, and deceitfulness in the nation of Israel the tender words of the voice of God speak of life, love, hope, and victory though they are also surrounded by words of judgement. I just finished the book of Isaiah and am now going through the book of Jeremiah. I am overwhelmed at times by the words of judgement that God spoke to Israel--and I am also overwhelmed at the evil and wickedness that was so prevalent in God's chosen people. The words of judgement can be heavy but the word is living and active. In Hebrews it says, "For those whom the Father loves, He disciplines..." Praise God that He loves us enough in our short-comings and failures to correct us and lead us down the path of life.
The book of Isaiah was a blessing to read, difficult at (many) times, but so filled with the love of God. Even in the prophecies of judgement against the nation of Israel, His actions came from a deep love for His people. Not only does He love His people, but they are His delight! "But you will be called,...'My delight is in her,'...For the Lord delights in you...And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so your God will rejoice over you.'" Isaiah 62:4,5 And, "Since you are precious in My sight, since you are honored and I love you, I will give other men in your place, and other peoples in exchange for your life." Isaiah 43:4. And finally, a word from the prophet Zephaniah, "The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing," Zephaniah 3:17.
The Lord takes great delight in His people...The Lord takes great deight in you! Praise His name!

In Christ Alone

I just want to share the words of this song...may we proclaim the truth of these words to the world!

In Christ alone, my hope is found
He is my light, my strength, my song.
This Cornerstong, this Solid Ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love! What depths of peace!
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease.
My Comforter, my All in All,
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe.
This gift of love and righeousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save:
Till on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied--
For every sin on Him was laid;
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain:
Then bursting forth, in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me!
For I am His, and He is mine--
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me.
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny.
No power of hell, no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I stand.

AMEN