Daily Devotional
Sunday: A Poetic Introduction: Isaiah 60:1-3
The poetic imagery in these verses is tied in with Isaiah 51 where Jerusalem is portrayed as a beautiful woman. The opening phrase, “Arise, shine; for thy…” (Isaiah 60:1) are all the feminine forms of the words in Hebrew. Poetically God is speaking to His church. He is challenging us to wake up, acknowledge His sovereignty and be a witness of His light to the world.
Monday: The Return: Isaiah 60:4-9
These verses describe the vast wealth which will be bestowed on restored Jerusalem. Poetically, the language in these verses is exaggerated, yet there are lessons for us here. Physically, Israel (the church) was promised God would provide for them. Spiritually, He promised to elevate them as sons and daughters of the Most High King and give them the riches of His inheritance— character qualities of peace, justice, joy, and goodness. All we need to do…is glorify Him (Isaiah 60:9b).
Tuesday: Submission to Zion: Isaiah 60:10-14
These verses describe the elevated status of restored Jerusalem. They portray the blessing and honor that God’s people will receive in the world. Once again it is in exaggerated, poetic form, but some of the details do depict the new prestige of Jerusalem under the favor of the Persian kings (Ezra 7; Nehemiah 1-2). When we follow God, we are a witness of His supremacy. Many people will be astounded at the wisdom, conviction, and gentleness of our character; and seek God for themselves, calling Him holy (Isaiah 60:14).
Wednesday: Restoring Israel to God: Isaiah 60:15-22
In English, the word “know” means to understand or have information. In Hebrew it has a much deeper meaning. It is used to express an intimate relationship, an understanding of a person on the deepest, personal level. Its biblical usage is of physical intimacy between a husband and wife. That is the type of relationship God wants with us—to truly know Him.
Thursday: The Lord’s Anointed: Isaiah 61:1-7
In verses 1-3, God urges us to take a course of action. He enables us to accomplish His purpose in the world. These verses should be our life’s “mission statement.” In place of the word “me” in the verses, just insert your own name. Write it on a notecard. Post it or carry it. They are our mission for God.
Friday: The Divine Lover of Justice: Isaiah 61:8-11
Usually when we think of judgment, we think of God’s condemnation. But judgment also entails rendering justice—fair treatment to all. It is God’s desire that we extend the justice He gives us and share it with the world. Our challenge, then, is to use the justice of God’s mercy in our business dealings, our personal relationships, and our treatment of others that society might call “unclean.”
Saturday: The Splendor of Love: Isaiah 62:1-12
An important emphasis in this passage is Isaiah 62:4. God promises that sorrow is in the past and now He will delight in His people (Hephzibah) and they will know the presence and love of God, as a husband knows his wife (Beulah). Read Zephaniah 3:17 and Ephesians 3:18-19. Can we ever comprehend such a love?