Comfort For God’s People

Comfort For God's People
Isaiah 40:1-11
- we live with such great comfort nowadays, but it seems like we haven't been the most uncomfortable until now - with our own body, families, etc.
- spiritually speaking, we lost track of the source of our discomfort (our sin) and comfort (the Word of God).
- this chapter's intention is to speak words of comfort to God's people.
- an odd timing for comforting words.
Previous chapter, Ch. 39, talks about the coming judgement - prophecy of the Babylonian invasion and Israel's exile.
- there is "comfort" that is to come and He wants us to hear of them.
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Four words of comfort:
I. Sin is pardoned (v2)
- basis for all other comforts.
- if you are at peace with God, then you will receive the comfort of God.
- "...she has received from the Lord's hand double for her sins" => meaning, because forgiveness has come, it is for us a "double comfort/blessing".
II. God is coming (v3-5)
- the most recognisable portion of the text as we find in the gospel John's claim that he is the "one crying in the wilderness preparing the way for the Lord..."
- as Israel has suffered from one evil king to another, they are now promised a Great King who will be for them.
- when Christ comes the second time, everyone will bow down before Him and behold is glory as King. If we seriously hold that in our minds, we will find comfort.
- Question to ponder: how much of God's coming affect our daily lives?
III. His word is sure (v6-8)
- how do we know that these things will take place? His word is sure and true!
- The is no greater certainty than the word of God.
- there are things so wonderful in the Bible that are impossible to believe except God says they will happen.
- Would you let the word of God comfort your soul? It is the only thing that will stand forever. If you look elsewhere, they will just fail and falter.
IV. He will shepherd his people (v9-11)
- He brings with Him rewards, recompense, strong arm, justice.
- Do you feel isolated, weak, scattered, foolish, wounded? He is coming to tend, gather, carry and gently lead His flock.
- Psalms 23, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."