Looking at Isaiah

“But watch out, you who live in your own light and warm yourselves by your own fires. This is the reward you will receive from me: You will soon fall down in great torment.” – Isaiah 50:11

            This final verse of Isaiah 50 is a call to those who are unconverted. It is a warning given to all of mankind, for even believers can get sucked into the temptation of trying to make something happen on their own. So many who believe it’s important to live an autonomous life, try “to escape moral, spiritual darkness” by their own efforts; such as, man-made religions or works, even though scripture is clear that one cannot work their way to heaven. One must repent of their past life overtaken by sin. Man’s light only shines so far, leaving them wondering where they are truly going and what lies ahead.

            Ruin comes to those who utilize their own limited resources, rather than the infinite resources provided by the Lord. This is exactly why Proverbs says in several places “there is a way that seems right to a man whose way is death”. For those who do not or will not take the light God provides, their future is very certain. Eternal separation from God is what will be their fate. The “great torment” spoken of is apparently hell, which was prepared for the devil and the fallen angels who were cast out of heaven with him.

            In these difficult times one must stay fixed on Christ and allow your faith and trust to grow instead of fade away. Don’t allow circumstances in your life to cause doubt. The devil wants to discourage you, but God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He will lift you above the fray and plant your feet on solid ground. Do not rely on your own resources, no matter how great you may think they are. Jesus says in the Gospels, “I am the vine, you are the branches. Without me you can do nothing.” Take that to heart and lean on the Lord. The devil is a liar and the father of all lies. God has never and will never let you down. Trust him with unwavering faith and you will win the day. Next time we will move on to chapter 51. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing!

Resources: The Life Application Study Bible; MacArthur Study Bible; Reformation Study Bible.