From: September 10, 2015
The Corinthians had fallen prey to false teachers who claimed greater authority than Paul. In response to this, Paul found himself in the awkward position of establishing his own credentials. Paul didn’t like to boast, unless it was to boast of Christ. So instead, he boasted of his “infirmity,” his weakness. He listed the number of times he had been beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, hungry, naked, and left for dead. Paul chose to see what others might call a record of disgrace as his resume of suffering for Christ. He was fulfilling the calling that Christ had given him on the road to Damascus, namely: “he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake” (Acts 9:15-16). Most boast of their successes to elevate their position, but Paul boasted of his sufferings, that Christ might be the One elevated in status.
From: September 10, 2014
(Isaiah 7:14 NLT).
Isaiah gave King Ahaz of Judah this sign from God to show that within only a few years, the kingdoms of Israel and Syria would be gone. Yet, this prophetic sign had a double fulfillment. It’s present-day fulfillment was for Ahaz, but it’s future fulfillment was for the entire human race. For 700 years later the virgin did indeed give birth to Jesus, the Son of God. Matthew quotes this verse to show its fulfillment in Christ (Matt. 1:23). Christ is the “holy seed” from “Israel’s stump” (Isa. 6:13). The Old Testament contains over 300 Messianic prophecies that are all fulfilled in Christ.
From: September 10, 2012
When Isaiah heard God’s call go out, he answered willingly. God is still calling messengers to go forth. Do you hear His call?
From: September 10, 2011
God still calls. Who will hear it? Who will be like Isaiah and answer “Send me!” Not many, I think. Too many have ears for this world’s security and call. Only a few will hear and answer the Lord. What are you doing with your life?