ISAIAH

Had a wonderful time with my family and 120 others from our church at the Singing Christmas Tree in downtown Portland, Oregon.  A wonderful program. Today, I'm still in Isaiah, and here is a thought or two, or three: 1) "I" PROBLEM- According to Isaiah 14:11-14, Lucifer had "I" problem.  He was the originator of this problem, but he has spread this disease around the world, and throughout the centuries.  He gave it to Nebuchadnezzar and caused him to be judged of God and live like a beast for seven years.  He inserts it into Christians at church sometimes and causes trouble.  He brings it to a home to upset a marriage that once was strong with love.  Notice what he said:  Isaiah 14:12-14  "How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!  13  For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north:  14  I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High."  Five times in two short verses.  Remember when we develop "I" problems, where we get it from and let us be done with it.  Remember that humility is what is of God.  Preferring one another comes from a higher authority! 2) WE WAITED FOR HIM-A precious truth is found in Isaiah 25:9.  It says:  "And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us:  this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation."  Ever since we were saved, we have been waiting for His return.  We will indeed rejoice when we stand in His presence and it will be worth it all that we have waited for Him.  In the New Testament, we find this verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:10  "And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come."  Let us patiently wait for our Savior. 3) HOLY GHOST GUIDANCE- In Isaiah 30:21  "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left."  What joy to know we are led by the Spirit of God; and though we do not always follow His leadership, He is ever present to guide any Christian who desires to follow His direction.  Oh blessed thought today to know He leadeth me!  Thank you, thank you O Holy Spirit of God!! Off to a men's prayer breakfast where I give a devotion each Saturday morning for men.  Men of Destiny!  I share truths to help us all become men of God, pleasing to the Savior, a blessing to our families, our church, and our society.  May God's blessings be upon you today!  Pastor Mike Mutchler