Sunday School Lesson 10: Faith in the Power of God, Isaiah 40:12-13, 25-31, February 4, 2024.
Key Text: He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might be increaseth strength (Isaiah 40:29).
Isaiah’s “Book of Consolation” sees a day of salvation yet to come in the future. It is the comfort that the people of God who are in covenant relationship with God and who are repentant, will realize a new state of conditions, a deep and inner work of God in their hearts because Israel’s “warfare is accomplished…her iniquity is pardoned” (Isaiah 40:8). Isaiah’s message will prepare His people to cross the desert for the return of Judaean exiles and provide a spiritual preparation that will be necessary for the coming of the Lord in the person of Jesus Christ. His initial message will serve as an “overture” in a great “symphony.” The prophet reminds God’s people who God really is.
Isaiah’s style is reminiscent of Job 38-39, “Who hath measured…in a balance” v12 which emphasizes the infinite greatness of God and exposes the finite inability of man. The only answer to the question can be “none but God, the Creator.” There can be no true salvation unless it is grounded in and based upon the historical fact of creation! Not only is God greater than His creation and distinct from it, but it is He alone who has the wisdom to sustain it. The prophet continues to emphasize that no one has given counsel or judgment unto the all-wise God.
In light of God’s omniscience, as well as His omnipresence, the prophet asks Israel why it is that she thinks her way is hidden from the Lord. As the Creator of the ends of the earth, He is so great that He never weary and there is no comprehending of the magnitude of His being. While He is incomprehensible, He is, nevertheless, knowable. He meets our every need and we can serve Him well. It is not just those who serve Him well who shall renew their strength, but it also applies to those who are patiently awaiting the fulfillment of His promises. AMEN!
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