SOAP 07/28/2014; Isaiah 55:8-9

Today's reading: Isaiah 53, 54, 55, 56; 2 Peter 2

S) "^8 'For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,' declares the Lord.
^9 'For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways
And My thoughts than your thoughts.'"

Isaiah 55:8-9 (NASB)

O) The context of these verses are in light of God's free offer of mercy. When we focus only on soteriology, and we try to apply human morality to it, it just makes no sense. If there was a criminal who was found guilty of murder, and there was a Supreme Court judge who decided to apply the death penalty to his own son, instead of the criminal, there would be absolute pandemonium in this country. Even if the judge's son volunteered himself for the substitution, the media would explode and people would be livid. The LORD's ways are just not are ways, and how He thinks of things is not how we think of things. This is in context, but this is still true in a broader sense. The difference between God and us isn't even actually measurable. The use of the phrase "heavens are higher than the earth," is essentially hyperbole. This isn't a measurable distance. It's reminiscent of measuring the east to the west (see Psalm 103:12).

A) Humble myself. That seems to be the most concise way to put it. In context, this verse is a wonderful encouragement. When I have sinned, and my shame is echoing the accusations of satan, this verse is a reminder that my natural penchant for self-abasement is not how the LORD sees me, because He's just not like me. Furthermore, for me personally, this concept is also almost a warning. I cannot assume anything about God based on my own reasoning. I need to rely fully on Scripture to teach me the character of God.

P) Father, these verses remind me why You alone are worthy of my worship. You are wholly unique to humanity, completely holy. When I fail, when I sin, remind me of this verse and the context with which it came, that Your mercy is a free offering to those who will receive it. Thank You for the grace and mercy You have shown me, and will show me. Please continue to teach me Your ways, by Your word, and according to Your will. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.