S) "4 The Lord God has given Me the tongue of disciples,
That I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word.
He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple."
Isaiah 50:4 (NASB)
O) The context of this passage does make it a little unclear who is talking. In the previous verses of the chapter, it is clear that the LORD was speaking (as it plainly states in v.1). However, for that to carry directly to verse 4 and beyond, seems a little out of place, considering the references back to the LORD. There is capitalization in the translation, suggesting that it is prophecy where the Messiah would be the speaker (i.e., through Isaiah), and that seems likely. Having said that, there is nothing particularly divine about the verse above, so it really could have been Isaiah speaking for himself. Also, the phrase "tongue of disciples" is a little unclear. However, the cause and purpose are quite clear. The LORD gifted the tongue, to minister to the weary. Then later in the verse, God is credited with continued life (awakening each morning), in order to continue learning from God, to be a better disciple.
A) This is almost something I can pray verbatim. Calling myself a Christian, is declaring that I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. It is my heart's desire, that I would learn to speak as His disciple, especially that I would learn how to sustain the weary with a word - a word of encouragement, a word of admonishment, or simply a word of Scripture. God continues to give me life, day after day, in His grace. I don't want to waste this time He is giving each day. I want my ears to be open, to listen and learn to be a better disciple of Jesus Christ. Primarily, that will come through a deeper understanding of Scripture as I study the Bible everyday.
P) Father, You are so gracious in Your plans. It was Your will, nothing less than what pleased You, to redeem my life. You did this on purpose, it was not random or accidental. I don't want to neglect Your purposes. I confess that I have been woefully distracted, selfish, and lazy. I need to take drastic measures, I think. Give me the strength I need, and the encouragement, to take the next step by faith. Lord, please give me the tongue of disciples, that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word. Continue to awaken me morning by morning, and awaken my ear to listen as a disciple. Let me be prepared for use, according to Your will and purposes. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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