The Israelites waited centuries for the promised Messiah. We have been waiting centuries for His promised return. Much of life is spent waiting on God. Still, through the promises of Scripture and the presence of the Spirit we can find peace and hope even in the absence of immediate answers.
In today's story, King Ahaz was under stress and sold out his faith in order to secure an alliance that he thought would keep him safe. Through Isaiah, God reveals the folly of his actions, showing Ahaz how temporary this false means of security was.
How often are we tempted to take shortcuts rather than truly wait on God? Especially when God gives us signs now that remind us that He always keeps his promises - no matter how long it takes?
Where Is It Written?
King Ahaz was among the worst kings of Judah. Read 2 Kings 16:1-4. What made Ahaz such a bad king?
Read 2 Kings 16:7-9. Who did Ahaz make an alliance with? To fight against whom? How did he pay for the alliance? What do all these actions reveal about his faith in the Lord?
Read Isaiah 7:1-2. Ahaz hears that Aram and Israel have made an alliance to fight against him in Judah. What is his response?
Read Isaiah 7:3-13. What different perspective on Ahaz's situation does Isaiah bring?
Read Isaiah 7:14-17. What promise is given to Ahaz? How does this same promise find MUCH greater fulfillment later?
How Goes Your Walk?
Ahaz received a promise that was partially fulfilled over the next few years but would find its complete fulfillment 700 hundred years later in Jesus.
When have you waited on God for a long time?
What signs has God given you now that His promise for the future can be trusted?
How do you tend to turn away when you are feeling discouraged in a time of waiting?
What advice would you give yourself when, like Ahaz, you are tempted to look to things other than God for your strength?
Sermons from Columbia Grove Covenant Church in East Wenatchee WA.
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