Today’s scripture: Isaiah 13:1-22 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (James Hendrix):
My frustration level rose as I spoke with the business manager. I explained to him several times that I had paid my telephone bill weeks ago, but that I had recently received a payment reminder from the telephone company about the same bill. The manager told me that he would check my account. After reviewing several computer records, the manager said that he had found my payment. He apologized for the mistake and assured me that my debt had been paid in full.
In Isaiah 13:1-22, we read about the sinful behavior, rebellion, and mistakes of the Babylonians. Although our behavior might displease God at times, we need not face the dreadful consequences that the prophet Isaiah foretold concerning Babylon. God paid the ultimate price for our sins. There is no way we could have canceled the debt on our own. By accepting God’s gift of love and grace, we can have the full assurance that he has forgiven — and effectively forgotten — all of our past mistakes, mess-ups, and selfish behaviors once and for all.
Thought for the day: God has paid our debt in full.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.