I have always loved certain verses of scripture from the book of Isaiah, but it has been many years since I actually read through the book. My favorite verse is 40:31. "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
The Lord recently gave me a very strong desire to do an indepth study of the book of Isaiah. There is probably a very well written book or study available for this at the local Christian book store, but it has always been my preference to do this type of study on my own.
I have learned that Isaiah is sometimes called the mini bible inside the bible. Did you know that Isaiah has 66 chapters just as the bible has 66 books. Isaiah has two major themes, the first is warning and judgement and the second is hope and salvation. The Bible has two major parts, the old testament of law and judgement and the new testament of hope and salvation. Isaiah's name means "the Lord saves" and his prophecies of the Messiah announce and describe the Lord who will save, comfort and bless His people.
Isaiah was given a glimpse of God's throne and was called to be a messenger. The Lord called him to confront, to exhort and to warn the people of Judah with the truth. They had broken the Lord's covenant and rebelled against their God and would have to face the consequences of their sins. Just as he exposed their sins, he also interceded on their behalf. He was not just a messenger, but he was also a watchman. He encouraged those who were penitent and sorrowful to place their hope in God. He spoke of peace and a time of healing. Isaiah was deeply concerned that the people understand that there is only one God and this one true God is the Almighty for all men and women. All are created by Him and all are subject to Him.
The words of Isaiah so many years ago to his people are still just as relevant to all people today.
