Tuesday

Isaiah 50: 4 - 9

The Sovereign LORD has given me an instructed tongue,
to know the word that sustains the weary.
He wakens me morning by morning,
wakens my ear to listen like one being taught.
The Sovereign LORD has opened my ears;
I have not been rebellious,
I have not turned away.
I offered my back to those who beat me,
my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard;
I did not hide my face
from mocking and spitting.
Because the Sovereign LORD helps me,
I will not be disgraced.
Therefore have I set my face like flint,
and I know I will not be put to shame.
He who vindicates me is near.
Who then will bring charges against me?
Let us face each other!
Who are my accusers?
Let them confront me!
It is the Sovereign LORD who helps me.
Who will condemn me?
They will all wear out like a garment;
the moths will eat them up.


I'd like this passage to be true about me -- but as I read it, I have to admit I don't usually know the word to sustain the weary. I do hide my face from mocking and spitting. I have been rebellious, and I know I've turned away.

Then I read verses 8 and 9: "He who vindicates me is near" and "It is the Sovereign LORD who helps me."

Jesus suffered scorn and death. He was spit upon and despised. His ears were open to His Father's words, and He spoke the words that sustain the weary. and because of this, I am no longer accused. God Himself helps me, and I will not be disgraced.

Wow.