My impression of the book of Isaiah is that it is one l-o-n-g book of 66 chapters. It surprised me this morning when I “stumbled” upon Isaiah 12. My eyes fell on Isaiah 11 first and I began reading it, moving on to Isaiah 12. I found myself drawn to the beautiful words of this “hymn of praise” (NKJV).
To my surprise, I discovered that there are only six verses in this chapter – the shortest chapter in the entire book! And yet, it is packed with such wonderful truths and promises. In these six short verses, you will find themes of praise, mercy, grace, comfort, strength, trust, salvation, joy, worship and exaltation! What wonderful material for meditation! What truths that bring joy, comfort and strength!
And in that day you will say:
“O LORD, I will praise You;
Though you were angry with me,
Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me.
Behold, God is my salvation,
I will trust and not be afraid;
‘For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song;
He also has become my salvation.'”
Therefore with joy you will draw water
From the wells of salvation.
And in that day you will say:
“Praise the LORD, call upon His name;
Declare His deeds among the peoples,
Make mention that His name is exalted,
Sing to the LORD,
For He has done excellent things;
This is known in all the earth.
Cry out and shout, O inhabitant of Zion,
For great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst!”
My favourite line is found in verse 3 … “with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” This is a promise for every child of God. And yet, there are so many who are parched and dry. These are either not aware of the wells, or have forgotten to draw daily from the rivers of living water. I will be the first to admit that I often fall into the latter category. In my busyness and hurriedness to do the work of the ministry, I find myself “dehydrated”. My intentions may be good, desiring to serve the Lord and give my very best, but good intentions are not enough. Over time, I dry up and burn out, even very possibly serving out of drudgery and not with joy and gladness.
Isaiah 12:3 is a reminder for me, as for many others I believe … “with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.” How refreshing! How revitalising! Verse 1 & 4 declare, “In that day you will say …” That day can be today! Lay hold of these six verses and the promises in them!
My brothers and sisters in Christ, and fellow ministers, may you be encouraged by this as you continue to serve the Holy One of Israel!
One Day At A Time 