S. God's Encouragement

God’s Encouragement (Isaiah 40:1-31)

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Introduction The people of Israel faced difficulties, not unlike many of the difficulties we face in our lives.

Three truths about God are given to encourage the people. These truths are God’s encouragement to us at times like this, also. The First Truth:

We are Mortal, Finite Creatures Isaiah 40:6-8 (a) tell us that we all live temporal lives here.

Isaiah 40:15-16 tell us how limited we are, compared to God. The first verse tells us of our humanity in pointing to our sin, and as God as the one able to address our need. (elsewhere Isaiah tells us our sins separate us from God). The last verse speaks also of our growing weak and weary. When we face death--our own or anothers, we come face to face with our own finiteness. Then, he contrasts us with God. The Second Truth:

God is in Control Isaiah 40:12-14 His infinite wisdom and knowledge.

Isaiah 40:21-22 He is in control watching over His creation.

Isaiah 40:23-24 He controls history.

Isaiah 40:25-26 He is sustaining and keeping His creation.

If He’s in control, Why does it sometimes seem otherwise?

We experience trials and troubles, we face sickness and death, we seemingly face unanswered prayers.

God comforts Israel by answering these same questions. The Third Truth:

God is Watching Over His People and Meets Their Needs Isaiah 40:11 He cares for us as a shepherd.

Isaiah 40:27 We should never feel as if He’s forgotten us.

Isaiah 40:28 He never grows weary.

Isaiah 40:29-30 He meets our needs as we "wait" upon Him. for strength for provisions for salvation--shepherd . . . earlier we read how the good shepherd gave His life for His sheep. facing trials facing death facing grief