Sunday, July 12, 2015

SOAP 07/12/2015; Isaiah 13:11

Today's reading: Isaiah 11, 12, 13, 14; Hebrews 9

S) "11 Thus I will punish the world for its evil
And the wicked for their iniquity;
I will also put an end to the arrogance of the proud
And abase the haughtiness of the ruthless."


Isaiah 13:11 (NASB)

O) This is part of Isaiah's prophecy against Babylon. As with all Old Testament verses, context is everything. So, even though this verse is a literal warning, it has also already come to pass. Because of that, more than anything, this verse is revealing God's character. Specifically, this verse demonstrates God's fierce judgment of arrogant pride, haughtiness, and ruthless men. God's wrath was poured out on Jesus, but His character hasn't changed. He still hates sin, and this verse is a clear reminder of how God sees specific sins.

A) Since arrogance is part of my natural disposition, it's no wonder that this verse stood out to me. I need to remind myself of how clearly the Bible reveals God's view of arrogant pride and haughtiness. In Christ, I am humbled, remembering how helpless and powerless I am to ever pay the penalty for my own sins. In this verse, I am reminded of the furious wrath that I had coming to me, when Jesus ascended the cross. That speaks volumes about the compassion, grace, and love that God has for me. That is what compels me to a life of obedience.

P) Father, I am humbled by Your fierce view of sin. Let this verse be a reminder to me, of how You
see arrogance. When haughty pride is bearing it's nasty head in my heart, let me quickly remember how You view that in my heart. Let me remain submitted to Christ, that I may be found in Him. Thank You for seeing Christ in me. Wash me clean, and continue to humble my heart. Have Your way in shaping me into the man You're calling me to be. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

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