The Vision E-Book

Brian Simmons

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Serie: The Passion Translation Devotionals
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2020

Seitenzahl: 439

Beschreibung

The prophet Isaiah spoke words that reflected God's desire for humanity: victory, hope, comfort, and restoration. His message remains a call to those who long to live in God's realm of glory each day. The Vision offers 365 daily devotions and prayers to usher you into his presence. With Scripture from The Passion Translation®, this devotional will bring you face to face with the King of love and mercy every day of the year. Encounter the fiery, living breath of the Word and experience a revelation to awaken your heart. It was because of our rebellious deeds that he was pierced and because of our sins that he was crushed. He endured the punishment that made us completely whole, and in his wounding we found our healing. Isaiah 53:5

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC

Savage, Minnesota, USA

BroadStreetPublishing.com

The Vision:

365-DAYS OF LIFE-GIVING WORDS FROM THE PROPHET ISAIAH

Copyright © 2020 Brian Simmons and Gretchen Rodriguez

978-1-4245-5860-5 (faux leather)

978-1-4245-5861-2 (e-book)

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Scripture quotations are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved. ThePassionTranslation.com.

Stock or custom editions of BroadStreet Publishing titles may be purchased in bulk for educational, business, ministry, fundraising, or sales promotional use. For information, please email [email protected].

Cover and interior by Garborg Design at GarborgDesign.com

Printed in China

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Those who entwine their hearts with Yahweh will experience divine strength. They will rise up on soaring wings and fly like eagles, run their race without growing weary, and walk through life without giving up.

ISAIAH 40:31

CONTENTS

Introduction

January

January 1: The Journey Begins

January 2: A Willing Heart

January 3: You Are the Holy Place of His Glory

January 4: Our Family Tree

January 5: The Spirit of Fire

January 6: The Covering of His Love

January 7: Covered in His Glory

January 8: The Garden of Your Heart

January 9: Life-Altering Revelation

January 10: Burning Ones

January 11: The Holy One Who Beckons Us to Come Close

January 12: Your Praise Shakes Things Up

January 13: He Is the Answer

January 14: The Burning Coal

January 15: Will You Be the One?

January 16: Stay Calm

January 17: Strength to Stand

January 18: Feeding on His Promises

January 19: You Have Become His Instrument

January 20: His Hand Is upon You

January 21: The Fear of the Lord

January 22: When God Seems to Hide

January 23: Be His Voice

January 24: His Light Is Shining upon You

January 25: Joy Is Coming

January 26: Shake Off Heaviness

January 27: He Is Your Shalom

January 28: Burning Ones

January 29: Our True Shepherd

January 30: The Oil of His Presence

January 31: The Spirit of Yahweh Is upon Me

February

February 1: Skillful Wisdom

February 2: Perfect Understanding

February 3: Wise Strategy

February 4: You Are a Mighty Warrior

February 5: Revelation

February 6: Holy Awe

February 7: Finding True Delight

February 8: He Sees You

February 9: Our Defender

February 10: Our Righteous King

February 11: Taming Our Wild Nature

February 12: Release the Light Within

February 13: You Are Filled in Order to Pour Out

February 14: The One Within

February 15: The Promise of Restoration

February 16: Praise Your Way to Victory

February 17: There Is No Other

February 18: Drink Deeply

February 19: Awakening to His Goodness

February 20: A New Outlook on Life

February 21: He Is with You Right Now

February 22: The Season of Waiting

February 23: He Is Our Center

February 24: Praying for Our Government

February 25: The Mindset of Mercy

February 26: Freedom from Religiosity

February 27: Our Vindicator

February 28: The Posture of Rest

March

March 1: Living in Awe of Our Deliverer

March 2: A Heart for the Lost

March 3: Trust His Timing

March 4: It’s Time to Sing

March 5: Chasing Away Oppression

March 6: Lean Back and Rest

March 7: Healing Trauma

March 8: The Abundant Life

March 9: Pain Is Swallowed in His Victory

March 10: The Discomfort of Waiting

March 11: His Peace Flows through Our Thoughts

March 12: The Faithful One

March 13: When You’ve Got It All Together

March 14: A Clear Path before You

March 15: First Things First

March 16: The Yearnings of Our Heart

March 17: Submitting Our Work

March 18: Find Him First

March 19: You Are His Vineyard of Delight

March 20: Cling to Him

March 21: Wrapped in His Beauty

March 22: Living Stones

March 23: Tuck Yourself into Grace

March 24: Beautifully Broken

March 25: Wisdom

March 26: Start Low

March 27: Restoration

March 28: Awestruck

March 29: Return

March 30: He Waits for You

March 31: His Promises to You

April

April 1: A Lifestyle of Bliss

April 2: Here He Comes!

April 3: Let Pain Lead You

April 4: Peace Will Lead the Way

April 5: Yearning for Purity

April 6: Your Seeds Will Blossom

April 7: Dance into Victory

April 8: Disorienting Change

April 9: The Whispers of YHWH

April 10: Awaken Our Hearts

April 11: God Is Wooing the Lost

April 12: It’s Okay to Dream

April 13: Deepening Our Roots

April 14: In Stillness

April 15: Constant One

April 16: The Key to the Treasure

April 17: Unstoppable

April 18: All–Consuming Fire

April 19: Taste and See

April 20: Unfurl the Sail of Your Heart

April 21: Searching for Truth

April 22: It’s Time to Come Alive!

April 23: Nothing Hidden

April 24: Each Sigh of Our Hearts

April 25: Be a Friend

April 26: You Are an Overcomer!

April 27: Releasing What You’ve Received

April 28: Triumph in Place of Tragedy

April 29: One Step at a Time

April 30: He Is the Way

May

May 1: Your Sorrow Will Not Remain

May 2: Stop Listening to Your Enemy

May 3: You Have His Attention

May 4: Seeing Answers Differently

May 5: Your Arms of Compassion

May 6: Mercy

May 7: Listen

May 8: On the Rocky Roads

May 9: Yearning

May 10: Don’t Ignore the Leading of His Spirit

May 11: Faithful and Sure

May 12: Your Victory Is Secure

May 13: The Shepherd

May 14: You’re Not Insignificant

May 15: The One Who Shares His Wisdom

May 16: Nothing Compares

May 17: Tugging at Your Soul

May 18: Upon Hearts of Humanity

May 19: Mighty to Save

May 20: The Perfect One Chose You

May 21: God Is Nuts about You

May 22: More Radiant Than the Stars

May 23: Guard Your Heart

May 24: When You Doubt

May 25: He Knows What He’s Doing

May 26: The Strength of Grace

May 27: Surrendered to His Wisdom

May 28: The Author of Our Days

May 29: Love Always Finds Us

May 30: Love Erases Fear

May 31: He Becomes Our Strength

June

June 1: When You’ve Been Betrayed

June 2: He Won’t Let Go

June 3: Taste the Victory

June 4: He Deserves Our Greatest Praise!

June 5: Ready for Freedom

June 6: Carried in His Heart

June 7: Lessons in Humility

June 8: Our Compassionate Savior

June 9: Becoming Courageous

June 10: It All Points to Him

June 11: You Were Created to Succeed

June 12: Set Them Free

June 13: Hearing God

June 14: Dispelling the Negativity

June 15: Ascending the Mountains

June 16: What If Today Were Different?

June 17: Our Hero

June 18: God Is Still Good

June 19: Take His Hand

June 20: He Leads His Beloved

June 21: A Heart Free from Idols

June 22: Your Faith Isn’t Broken

June 23: Teach Me

June 24: It’s Time to See Clearly

June 25: You Are His Masterpiece

June 26: Breathe

June 27: Persecution

June 28: Eternally Loved

June 29: Fear Fades in His Presence

June 30: He Pursues the Prodigals

July

July 1: You Were Made for His Glory

July 2: Knowing Him

July 3: None Other

July 4: It’s Time to Believe

July 5: You Won’t Drown

July 6: Stepping into Something New

July 7: Encountering Him in the Desert

July 8: A Song Is Rising in the Wilderness

July 9: Our One and Only

July 10: You Are Love’s Perfect Gift

July 11: Under His Waterfall

July 12: Our Children Are His Children

July 13: You Have Always Been Loved

July 14: With a Heart of Faith

July 15: He Won’t Let You Go

July 16: Walking in His Abundant Grace

July 17: Finding Our Way Back

July 18: Emanating with Glory

July 19: He Doesn’t Need Your Help

July 20: Before It’s Too Late

July 21: You Are Known by God

July 22: Crashing through Obstacles

July 23: God Will Reveal His Goodness

July 24: Paying Attention

July 25: You Are Royalty

July 26: All We Need

July 27: To Know Him More

July 28: It’s Time to Celebrate Yourself

July 29: Into Our Glorious Future

July 30: His Uninterrupted Presence

July 31: The Longing Heart Never Stops Seeking Him

August

August 1: The Invitation

August 2: God Alone

August 3: Set Yourself in Agreement with Him

August 4: The Dance of Deliverance

August 5: In Agreement with His Word

August 6: Absolutely Surrendered

August 7: Letting Go of Anger

August 8: A Higher Way

August 9: Peace Will Carry You in Times of Pressure

August 10: Remaining Childlike

August 11: A Truly Fulfilling Relationship

August 12: Remember

August 13: His Plans Will Come to Pass

August 14: Trust Him

August 15: When His Righteousness Comes on the Scene

August 16: Welcoming God’s Correction

August 17: The Shift

August 18: Embracing Peace While We Wait

August 19: Tapping into His Secrets

August 20: New Levels of Wisdom

August 21: Boundless Mercy

August 22: Because of Your Grace

August 23: Our Omnipotent God

August 24: Our King and Friend

August 25: Your Destiny Cannot Be Stopped

August 26: True Success

August 27: Finding Him Every Day

August 28: Eyes on Him

August 29: Who Are You Listening To?

August 30: The Fountain

August 31: Aligning with Truth

September

September 1: When You’re Mistreated

September 2: The Light of the World within You

September 3: He Will Answer Your Heart’s Cry

September 4: Set Them Free

September 5: Set Yourself in Agreement with Favor

September 6: He Knows You

September 7: Your Walls Are Coming Down!

September 8: Faith for Wayward Children

September 9: In Devastation

September 10: Becoming One

September 11: God Fights for Children

September 12: Remember Who the True Enemy Is

September 13: Come Out of Hiding

September 14: Encouraging the Weary

September 15: Early Morning Moments

September 16: Pierced by Love

September 17: Beholding Love

September 18: The Empowerment of Love and Grace

September 19: Living by Faith

September 20: Playing with Fire

September 21: His Plans Are Greater than Yours

September 22: Step into Hope

September 23: Lean In and Listen

September 24: Until Then

September 25: Clarity

September 26: When the World Takes Notice

September 27: Stop Doubting

September 28: Releasing Every Care

September 29: Emerging from Heartache

September 30: You Have Forgotten

October

October 1: Surf the Waves of Adversity

October 2: In the Hollow of His Hand

October 3: You Are Not Your Past

October 4: Every Nation

October 5: Let Your Love Out

October 6: Leaving Babylon

October 7: When We Give Him Our Yes

October 8: Perfect Love

October 9: The Power of the One Within

October 10: The Radiant One

October 11: Emotionally Whole

October 12: Healing in Every Area

October 13: The Stance of Silence

October 14: You Are His Deepest Desire

October 15: Hold Nothing Back

October 16: Jesus, Our Intercessor

October 17: I Will Worship

October 18: Increase Comes from the Lord

October 19: Reaching the Multitudes

October 20: A Bright, Hopeful Future

October 21: In Loneliness

October 22: Reassessing Priorities

October 23: His Healing Love

October 24: We Can Live in Peace

October 25: Extending Grace

October 26: Becoming His Jewels

October 27: Our Extravagant God

October 28: God’s Promises for Our Children

October 29: Established in Righteousness

October 30: Be Far from Fear

October 31: Our Advocate

November

November 1: Love Always Wins

November 2: Drenched

November 3: Flourishing

November 4: The Approachable God

November 5: In His Time

November 6: Faithful and True

November 7: Choose Freedom

November 8: Jesus Has Become Our Sabbath Rest

November 9: True Success

November 10: In This Family

November 11: True Righteousness

November 12: Nothing Will Stop Them

November 13: His Glory Changes Everything

November 14: From High Above

November 15: You Were God’s Idea

November 16: Step Forward

November 17: In Grief

November 18: He Offers Peace

November 19: Fasting

November 20: A Power Source

November 21: A Life of Compassion

November 22: Love’s Merciful Refreshing

November 23: The Decision to Seek Him First

November 24: Still Our Hero

November 25: Overtake Me

November 26: Holy Spirit

November 27: You Can Hear God

November 28: Shine, Beautiful One

November 29: Dispelling Darkness

November 30: Pay Attention

December

December 1: Believe Anyway

December 2: He Will Carry Them Home

December 3: No More Limitations

December 4: Still More Glorious

December 5: Tucked In

December 6: Praying for Our Enemies

December 7: When You’re Misunderstood

December 8: Peaceful and Prosperous

December 9: Bathing in His Light

December 10: Heaven’s Glory Here on Earth

December 11: You Are Anointed

December 12: Share Your Freedom

December 13: The Power of Grace

December 14: He Kisses Away Our Pain

December 15: Double for Your Trouble

December 16: God’s Will for Our Children

December 17: All the Good Stuff

December 18: Arrayed in His Glory

December 19: Our New Name

December 20: He Adorns Himself with You

December 21: You Are His Bride

December 22: New Assignments

December 23: Confident Love

December 24: These Strong Arms

December 25: The Greatest Gift

December 26: Nothing Is Hidden

December 27: A Cry for Purity

December 28: Staying True While We Wait

December 29: His Desire

December 30: This Great Mercy

December 31: A Ravished Heart

About the Authors

Introduction

The book of Isaiah is a vision that spans the plan of ages. It is a message of overcoming, hope, comfort, and restoration. It is an invitation to those who have become a spiritual Zion. It is a call to those who long to live in God’s realm of glory every single day, which is why we have penned a devotion for each day of the year.

Isaiah was a man who spoke with fire-touched lips. His words are the reflection of God’s desire for humanity. The entire book reveals the Father’s mercy and desire to restore us to him. At times, it is experienced through refining fire, and at other times, through the gentle compassion that overwhelms our souls. But rest assured, his glory is tangible on every page.

The book of Isaiah has come alive to me in ways I never knew possible. Each day as I sat to write, the presence of Yahweh gripped my soul with such passion and power, I could scarcely write. The encounters of the Word, this living, fiery breath of life, whispered revelation that awakened my heart. With tears streaming down my face, I was completely undone by the treasures of love found in Isaiah. This is our prayer for you—that this devotional will usher you into his presence, where you come face to face with the King of love, mercy, and perfect desire.

Gretchen Rodriguez

January

JANUARY 1

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

Come now and let’s deliberate over the next steps to take together. Yahweh promises you over and over: “Though your sins stain you like scarlet, I will whiten them like bright, new-fallen snow! Even though they are deep red like crimson, they will be made white like wool!

ISAIAH 1:18

At the beginning of our journey, the Lord initiates relationship. His offer of forgiveness and cleansing opens the door to communication. “Come and let’s deliberate,” he says, extending not only salvation but also friendship to those who have yet to know him. Will we remain in darkness, or accept his offer? We are free to choose.

This invitation to walk with him into freedom isn’t forced. Love is not demanding or imposing. Even while we are yet sinners, love reaches out. Although he could have stopped there—offering freedom from sin and the gift of eternal life—he beckons us into friendship. Into oneness. Into partnership. Together we walk the path that leads to holiness. In complete surrender to his unselfish love, we find our identity. We find our joy. We discover who we were created to be by surrendering to the One who redeems our soul. Come, explore the mystery of holy union. Come, take his hand.

Lord, thank you for your unfathomable love. For extending the gift of salvation. For continuing to draw me close, with passion and mercy. I confess my great need—not only for your cleansing but to be fully consumed by you until nothing remains in me but your holiness.

JANUARY 2

A WILLING HEART

“If you have a willing heart to let me help you, and if you will obey me, you will feast on the blessings of an abundant harvest.”

ISAIAH 1:19

What incredible mercy the Lord shows us! Not just once, but every time we yield to the enemy or our own weakness, Jesus rushes to us and shows us the way out. Instead of slamming us into a chair of shame, punishing us for failure, he pulls us close. He gently places us on his lap and says something to the effect of, “Beloved, I have more for you than you can possibly imagine. Come closer.”

Jesus holds the key to prisons of fear, disillusionment, and sin, and he longs to set us free. The only requirement for freedom is a willing heart. When we surrender our past and our unhealthy mindsets, allowing him to help us, he releases the blessing of a fruitful life. Today, let’s yield every area of our lives that isn’t producing his character. Let’s recognize the mindsets that aren’t leading to joy and peace. Let’s be honest about what we’re mentally feasting on, and invite him into every thought.

Lord, I desire to walk with you in fullness. To know you and experience a life of abundance. My heart is willing Lord! Cleanse me and reveal areas of my heart, which still need to be fully yielded to you. Heal me. Restore me. I am yours.

JANUARY 3

YOU ARE THE HOLY PLACE OF HIS GLORY

Many peoples will come and say, “Everyone, come! Let’s go up higher to Yahweh’s mountain, to the house of Jacob’s God; then he can teach us his ways and we can walk in his paths!” Zion will be the center of instruction, and the word of Yahweh will go out from Jerusalem.

ISAIAH 2:3

When the glory of God kisses our hearts, it stirs a passion in us to be near him. To know him. To walk with him in righteousness. To behold our King as he rules in righteousness. This invitation to experience his glory is extended to every believer. We are not only invited to Zion, the realm of his Kingdom, we become Zion. We become the dwelling place of his Spirit.

To rise in his presence, we first bow low in humility—allowing him to reign as King over our lives. He illuminates our lives with purity and power. Within us is all that he contains. What an incredible thought! We become the Mountain of Zion (Hebrews 12:22), the place where his greatness is displayed. There is no reason we cannot live each day led by his Spirit, learning his ways, and walking in his paths.

Lord, you have held nothing back from me. Now make your greatness known in me. Establish your throne upon my heart. Perfect your beauty within me as I seek you above all other loves. I long to walk along your righteous paths and to shine with your glory to the world around me.

JANUARY 4

OUR FAMILY TREE

In that day, the branch of Yahweh will be beautiful and glorious and the fruit of the earth will be the pride and glory of the remnant of Israel.

ISAIAH 4:2

Jesus is the vine, and we are his branches. We could say Jesus stands at the head of our family tree. Our beauty, wisdom, and divine nature have been passed down to us from him. All of heaven looks at us and sees the offspring of glory. Is this what we see when we look in the mirror? Is this the truth we pull from when we reach out our hands to bless others? His very life, the expression of his power and majesty upon the earth, lives inside of us, waiting to be released.

We are radiant. Take a moment and think about that. Our beauty isn’t based on how we look or feel each day. It isn’t temporary, and it isn’t as fickle as what’s on the outside. We are true vessels of perfect glory. When we imagine Jesus’s beauty, we mustn’t forget that same beauty is alive within us.

Jesus, you are the delight of heaven. You are fathomless beauty swirling inside of me. All of your mystery is contained within my flesh. All of your glory has been entrusted to someone as fragile as me. I honor all that you are and stand in awe—not only for who you are but for who you are in me.

JANUARY 5

THE SPIRIT OF FIRE

The Lord has washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and cleansed the bloodstains of Jerusalem by a Spirit of justice and by a Spirit of burning.

ISAIAH 4:4

God’s mercy doesn’t slam the gavel upon our sin and leave us to suffer his wrath. Instead, his kindness leads us to repentance. His perfect justice brings conviction, and we cannot help but bow in humility, crying out for his refining fire. We trust his judgment because he clearly discerns between what is holy and what is not. There is no partiality with God. No prejudice clouds his vision. He not only convicts of sin, he has made a way for us to be cleansed.

We long for his blast of justice and breath of fire—pure, holy, and necessary. His passionate love causes us to see our condition through his eyes. It creates a holy desire within us for purity. We respond with unyielding surrender, inviting his Spirit of fire to burn away all that does not mirror him.

Lord, I cry out for your cleansing fire! Purify me. Free my mind from thoughts that don’t focus on your truth. Set me ablaze with unquenchable passion to live before you in righteousness and purity. Seal my heart with the fire of your love. I invite your searching gaze into every area of my life.

JANUARY 6

THE COVERING OF HIS LOVE

Then Yahweh will create over all of Mount Zion and over every gathering a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night. And all this manifestation of dazzling glory will spread over them like a wedding canopy.

ISAIAH 4:5

The Lord’s love for you is immeasurably intense and deeply personal. Think of the great lengths he takes to explain his passion. Imagine the King of kings and Lord of lords pulling you aside and explaining that his dazzling glory is the covering for your holy union. This glory isn’t only the foundation for all that he created. It is also an intimate symbol of his outrageous passion for you.

Jesus holds nothing back, nor does he spare any expense to prove his love. Day and night, his care continues. He never forgets us—not for a moment. It’s hard to believe that we can grow accustomed to such outrageous displays of devotion, neglecting him even for a moment. Today, let’s live with the continual awareness of the One who gave up all for us. Let’s stand daily under the canopy of his grace.

Lord, you lavish me with unceasing love and unyielding commitment. It’s hard to comprehend such love. Love that gives without expecting anything in return. Love that isn’t ashamed to call me your beloved, even when I become distracted. Give me the grace to love you the same way you love me. Thank you for the glory light that illuminates my life.

JANUARY 7

COVERED IN HIS GLORY

It will be a tabernacle as a shade from the scorching heat of the day and a safe shelter to protect them from the storm and rain.

ISAIAH 4:6

The Lord never promised a life free of storms. Though we wish it were not true, trials are a normal part of life. Yet in times of trouble, the righteous have been promised a place of protection. When adversity rears its head, we run to him and find safety under the shadow of his presence.

Sometimes, in our weariness, running to him isn’t an option. If we’re honest, it’s all we can do to utter his name as we fall prostrate at his feet. But here too, we discover his unmerited grace as he extends his glory and covers us. He is unceasingly compassionate. Though the storms of life come, in his kindness he pulls us close so we can hide ourselves in him. And in him, in his glorious presence, we can breathe again. Hope again. Believe, despite the storms that rage. This is the place we were designed to live in. Created to draw strength from.

Father, thank you for allowing me to come into the fullness of your glory. For being with me in every season of my life, and for protecting and covering me, even when I’m not aware that you are. You are my strength and you will never forsake me, especially in life’s darkest moments.

JANUARY 8

THE GARDEN OF YOUR HEART

Let me sing a song for the one I love, called “My Lover and His Vineyard.”

ISAIAH 5:1

Before Jesus was born, Isaiah caught a glimpse of Jesus’s passion for his vineyard—for us, the ones he would give everything for. This revelation stirred a song of love from deep within Isaiah for the One he loved.

And now, springing up from the depths of our souls, we too cry out with songs of loving worship to our Beloved. We are the Lord’s beautiful garden. He comes and meets with us in the quiet of our soul to share his secrets. To walk with us and be our Friend. His Spirit tilled this inner garden of our hearts. Seeds of incorruptible beauty have been planted within us. We must maintain this vineyard by nurturing our personal communion with God. To quickly tend to the weeds of wrong thinking, bad attitudes, and worldly behaviors, which seek to choke the fruit of our garden.

Father, I turn my heart to you. Meet with me in our secret garden. Let my life blossom with life and bear fruit for your glory. Speak to me, hold me, heal me, and laugh with me. Help me keep my heart soft and pliable in your hands so nothing hinders my relationship with you.

JANUARY 9

LIFE-ALTERING REVELATION

In the year that King Uzziah died, I clearly saw the Lord. He was seated on his exalted throne, towering high above me. His long, flowing robe of splendor spread throughout the temple.

ISAIAH 6:1

This chapter is considered Isaiah’s prophetic commissioning. Though he had already prophesied many “woes” to Israel, the Lord unveiled his eyes and gave him a Throne Room encounter. The revelation of the Lord’s beauty and splendor transformed Isaiah’s life and ministry. Instead of only seeing what was wrong, he tapped into God’s solution. Only a glimpse of his glory could do that.

Today, many spew out judgment without having a clear understanding of God’s love and mercy. It isn’t until we understand our own condition and need for the personal touch of his mercy that we can offer something more powerful than a reprimand. Until we understand his love and have a true encounter with his radiant splendor, we will only notice the faults and sins of others. A glimpse of his glory will draw us into love. It will give us answers that truly set our hearts free.

Father, draw me into your presence. Like Isaiah, bless me with a life-altering encounter of your glory. Cleanse me and purify my lips. I long for a fresh touch. I long to see you. Help me keep my heart clean so I can release truth that is seasoned with your truth and compassion.

JANUARY 10

BURNING ONES

Standing above him were the angels of flaming fire, each with six wings: with two wings they covered their faces in reverence, with two wings they covered their feet, and with two wings they flew.

ISAIAH 6:2

Seraphim means the burning ones or fiery beings. Seen as guardians of the holiness of God, seraphim are the anointed, fiery custodians of the Throne Room. Winged creatures that swirl around the throne, ignited by God’s burning presence. We are not told how many Isaiah saw or their size, only that they use their wings to cover themselves in humility and reverence. They cover their faces, symbolizing humility. They cover their feet, disavowing any intention to choose their own path. And with two wings they fly, conveying availability and ready obedience. Their supreme task is to hide before the face of God.

If these exceedingly glorious creatures hide themselves before God’s holiness, how could we strive to display ourselves, our gifting, anointing, or works? Though these shining ones burn with holiness, they pale in comparison to the All-Glorious One. Let us take our cue from them, bowing low in humility, awe, and wonder, as we gaze into the eyes of the One of infinite beauty, and surrender all.

Father, I want to burn with holiness and passion for you. As I remain close to your sacred flames, ignite me with your presence. Purify me as I humble myself before you. Cleanse me so I may shine for you, giving you all the glory!

JANUARY 11

THE HOLY ONE WHO BECKONS US TO COME CLOSE

One called out to another, saying: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, Commander of Angel Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!”

ISAIAH 6:3

Imagine listening to the seraphim as they cry out in antiphonal song, praising and magnifying God. Picture these glorious creatures, calling out to one another in continual awe and unbroken praise. More magnificent and breathtaking than the sound of any choir or symphony, the seraphim sing their continual song of holiness, in response to their revelation of God’s glory.

This same God, who dwells in unapproachable light, invites us to come close. To not only join the angels as they declare his glory, but to know this Glorious One as our Savior, Lord, and Friend. To not only observe as he fills the earth with his glory, but to partner with him while he does. We do not worship him from afar but draw close until we too cry out in awestruck wonder, overwhelmed by this same glory, which incites the angels’ praise.

Lord, you are glorious and magnificent. The awareness of your beauty and holiness leaves me undone. You are here with me now. I sense your presence all around me. May I never grow accustomed to your glory but honor it always. I want to praise you with as much understanding as the angels, yet love you even more profoundly.

JANUARY 12

YOUR PRAISE SHAKES THINGS UP

The thunderous voice of the fiery angels caused the foundations of the thresholds to tremble as the cloud of glory filled the temple!

ISAIAH 6:4

If the thunderous cries of the angels shake the foundations of heaven, what do you think your praise does? You are a child of God. A vessel of his Holy Spirit. A carrier of his glory. When you stand to praise him in the midst of adversity, every opposition begins to shake and tremble before you. You are powerful, and your praise is a weapon of mass destruction against the enemy.

There is no shortage of the glory of God in heaven. As a vessel of his Spirit, there is no shortage of his glory in you. Just as the angels’ praise resounds throughout heaven, your praise resounds in heaven and earth. The songs of love and words of thankfulness that flow from your lips are alive and powerful. You have the ability to usher in the King’s glory into every situation you face. Never underestimate the efficacy of your praise.

Father, let me be like the fiery angels of heaven—exploding with praise that shakes the foundations of the earth. Let my passionate praise roar with authority and faith. Fill me with the revelation of who you are. As I yield to your majesty and bow in humility, may you rise within me and reveal yourself through me.

JANUARY 13

HE IS THE ANSWER

I stammered and said, “Woe is me! I’m destroyed—doomed as a sinful man! For my words are tainted and I live among people who talk the same way.”

ISAIAH 6:5

The revelation of God’s glory will always bring us to our knees. Though it causes us to recognize our own sinfulness and the areas we fall short, it also leads to the One who holds the answer. It’s not enough to know we are needy; we must know the One who fills that need.

The urgency of our great inadequacy should always lead us to a face-to-face encounter with Jesus. It must compel us to invite the intense light of his holiness to pierce us through and through. Seasons of crisis ought to send us running to the One who exchanges our doom and gloom for restoration and glory. The awareness of our sinful state is meant to incite a desire for the One who takes away our sin. Like Isaiah, let’s throw ourselves before the Lord as cries of “Holy, holy, holy!” pour from our lips.

Father, you alone make all things new. You are the answer to every problem and the healing for every soul-disease. You are the light for every darkened path. The crown of glory that replaces my cloak of shame. Thank you for redeeming me and for piercing me with the revelation of your love.

JANUARY 14

THE BURNING COAL

Out of the smoke, one of the angels of fire flew to me. He had in his hands a burning coal he had taken from the altar with tongs. He touched my lips with it and said, “See? The burning coal from the altar has touched your lips. Your guilt is taken away; your sin is blotted out.”

ISAIAH 6:6–7

The Lord hears the words of a sinner who cries out to him. When Isaiah cried, seraphim took a burning coal from the altar of the Lord, touched Isaiah’s lips, and cleansed him. If he could be purged of his sin, how much more can we? His vision of glory resulted in a visit of healing grace. It is the same for us—our recognition of his glory and our great need humbles us and invites his remedy.

In the presence of God is an altar of incense that burns continually. It speaks of God’s satisfaction with the finished work of Christ. It is an emblem of the cross and what Jesus did when he was consumed as God’s perfect sacrifice. Isaiah was touched by the burning coal, but we are eternally cleansed by the fire of the cross.

Lord, I need you, today and always. As I stand before you, aware of your holiness and glory, I’m undone. Let the fire of your passion consume my heart! Set me free from lesser loves and let me burn for only you. I long for my life to be a sweet-smelling fragrance before you.

JANUARY 15

WILL YOU BE THE ONE?

I heard the Lord saying, “Whom should I send to my people? Who will go to represent us?” I spoke up and said, “I will be the one. Send me.”

ISAIAH 6:8

Transformed by our encounters with his glory, we are invited to collaborate with the Lord. Though he never forces us, he does compel us to walk alongside him in ministry. We are the vessels he desires to move through. The Lord stirs the hearts of those around us, but we are the ones who lead them to him.

Each day, you have the opportunity to share a part of him by your actions and words. You don’t need a title, a platform, or anyone’s permission, only a tender and obedient heart. Partnering with him is different for everyone. Sometimes it looks like praying for the sick person in front of you at the store. Sometimes it means comforting a sad coworker. If you pay attention to the people around you and avail yourself to him, you will see him touch the world through you.

Lord, today I take the bold step of saying “yes!” to you. Give me your heart for the people I encounter each day. Help me not to dismiss your gentle nudges when you want me to talk to someone. Instead of focusing on my inconvenience, I will allow myself to be moved by your compassion. I will be the one. Send me!

JANUARY 16

STAY CALM

“Give him this message: ‘Stay calm!

Be quiet and guard your heart!

Don’t panic or be discouraged over these two smoldering stubs of firewood.’”

ISAIAH 7:4

When it feels like all hell has launched an attack against you, this advice still rings true today. Stay calm. Don’t let your emotions overtake you, but bring each one to the Lord so he can refine you. Don’t explode. Don’t overreact. Don’t exchange faith for fear. Guard your heart. Don’t panic.

Some of our biggest and seemingly insurmountable trials are nothing more than smoldering stubs of wood in our Father’s eyes. If we could see things from his point of view, we would all feel a lot less stressed. But this is the crux of it all, isn’t it? To go immediately to him in times of crisis and find his presence so we can get his perspective. Too often, we depend on our intellect, frantically searching for answers that only he can give. In times of trouble, let’s not react but intentionally step back to find him.

Father, in times of trouble, you alone are my refuge and peace. When it feels as if the world is crumbling around me, and I feel myself succumbing to fear, wrap me in your arms and pull me close. Help me to remember that you are in control, and I am not. You will work out the details.

JANUARY 17

STRENGTH TO STAND

“If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not be able to stand at all!”

ISAIAH 7:9

There is no middle ground between fear and faith, and faith is the only way we’re going to make it! It’s time we stop allowing the enemy to trick us into thinking that obsessing over problems will change them. It won’t. Fear and faith cannot coexist. All that the Lord does, he does through faith. It’s time to tear the enemy of fear from our souls!

Our strength to stand in the face of opposition depends on our ability to trust him and to lift our attention to his love, faithfulness, and goodness. When we lower our gaze to our situations, it stirs our anxiety and causes us to falter. If we feel overwhelmed, heavy, and stressed, it’s not because we don’t have the power to shake it off. It’s because we haven’t fully released the problem to him.

Father, forgive me for agreeing with fear and not fully trusting you. Instead of focusing on the weightiness of this problem and losing my footing, I choose to stand in faith. You know me. You see every situation with clarity. You have the answer, and because I know you love me, I will trust in you.

JANUARY 18

FEEDING ON HIS PROMISES

“The Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold—the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will name him God Among Us. He will eat curdled milk and honey, and he will know enough to refuse the evil and choose the good.”

ISAIAH 7:14–15

One of Isaiah’s most profound prophecies was of the coming Messiah and his virgin birth. He spoke of the Lord who would come to dwell among us. Come to lead us back to him. Come to give us an example of how we could live. And this is exactly what happened—Jesus came, feasting on Kingdom promises, revealing to us the importance of God’s Word for victorious living.

Jesus feasted on the promises of God. Milk and honey represent the promised land where God fulfills every oath. Feeding on the Word enables us to choose the right. We aren’t deceived by the enemy’s lies when we spend time feasting on the truth. Like Jesus, we too can live in the promised land, here on earth. We are invited to feast upon his Word and the revelation of Jesus, the Word of God, dwelling within us.

Father, I want to spend my life feasting on the ongoing revelation of your life within me. I want to be so consumed with truth that the lies of the enemy never find a place to land in my mind. Your promises and the reality of God Among Us have become my daily bread.

JANUARY 19

YOU HAVE BECOME HIS INSTRUMENT

The Lord Yahweh said to me, “Take a large tablet and engrave upon it these words using the stylus of a man.”

ISAIAH 8:1

What an encouraging word to creatives. The Lord moved through Isaiah’s pen, all those many years ago, and he still flows through our hands today. The Lord loves to use ordinary people and ordinary instruments to convey extraordinary truth. Writers, painters, musicians, bakers, doctors—it doesn’t matter how we release his voice and presence. It only matters that we make ourselves available to do it. Though we are ordinary, frail people, we have the grace to speak for God. We are the vessels the Lord has chosen to speak through. The ones he longs to touch the world through.

Never underestimate the power of your craft. You are filled with his Spirit. Life, anointing, revelation, and tangible encounters flow through your hands, your body, your art. God can use what is written or composed by man to touch man. You have become the instrument he has chosen to move through.

Father, I avail myself to you. Anoint the work of my hands. Infuse my words and my art. Flow through everything I do and create. I want to release your tangible touch and power to break through to all who I meet. Let what appears ordinary become extraordinarily blessed.

JANUARY 20

HIS HAND IS UPON YOU

The Lord’s mighty hand rested on me, and he warned me with these words not to act like these people.

ISAIAH 8:11

This was a divine revelation released to Isaiah. The strong hand of God was upon him. He was seized by God. A compelling, gripping power fell upon him, and he prophesied. God is so merciful to us. He loves us so much that he doesn’t leave us alone to figure things out on our own. He knows it takes his strong hand on our lives to keep us free from the world and the tug of the flesh.

You never need to fear missing the Lord. Just as the Lord had his hand upon Isaiah, his hand is upon you, today. He knows how to point you in the right direction. Never believe the lie that your inability to hear him is greater than his ability to speak to you. He is God, after all. He knows how to get your attention. Only the hand of God can deliver you from your fears and keep you walking in the awe of God.

Lord, I invite you to guide my life. I bow before you today, knowing that no matter how smart or talented I am, I need you. I need your wisdom. I yearn for your grace in all I do. I cry out for your mercy and strength so I never stray.

JANUARY 21

THE FEAR OF THE LORD

“Fear nothing and no one except Yahweh, Commander of Angel Armies! Honor him as holy. Be in awe before him with deepest reverence!”

ISAIAH 8:13

The Hebrew word for fear means holy awe, to venerate, deepest respect, worship, adore, to regard as holy. This holy fear anchors us. It keeps us rooted and grounded and inspires us with awestruck wonder. As we set him apart in our hearts as holy, it stirs a desire to please him more than any other. The fear of God keeps us from defiling ourselves. We want every thought, word, and action to honor him.

A spirit of fear is not the same thing as the fear of the Lord. God does not give us a spirit of fear or panic, but he does insist we approach him with reverence, awe, humility, and surrender. We have always known that love is the foundation of our relationship with God, but now the Lord wants us to discover the fear of the Lord as equally foundational. Love and the fear of God are the twin truths that stabilize the church.

Father, I long to live before you in holiness and complete surrender. I want every motive and thought to honor you. Help me to guard my heart at all times and to remain undefiled from this world. I want to know you as you yearn to be known. May love and the fear of the Lord keep me close to you.

JANUARY 22

WHEN GOD SEEMS TO HIDE

I will wait for the Lord Yahweh, who hides his face from the family of Jacob. And I will place all my hope in him!

ISAIAH 8:17

When God feels distant and prayers seem to go unanswered, faith must rise. These are the seasons when it feels as if God has hidden his face from us. Sometimes God hides himself in order to stir our longing. We begin to yearn for him with desire, which we can barely utter. Longing consumes us and all other distractions fall to the wayside.

Then there are times when it feels as if God’s judgment has come to the people of the earth. To those who know him, it’s a time to make him our dread and holy fear as we hide in our knowledge of his love as a sanctuary. Peace in a time of judgment comes from knowing that God is good and kind. We trust that God will fulfill his promises because faith is for the dark days. True faith is designed to be your strength when God seems absent.

Father, I bind the testimony of your faithfulness to my heart and hide myself in you. You are my confidence and Strong Tower. I turn away from distractions, and by faith, lean into your love. I long for your presence more than anything else. Let me see your face. Let me feel your tangible touch.

JANUARY 23

BE HIS VOICE

Now, suppose someone says, “Consult mediums and spiritists . . .” You are to answer them: “Listen to the teaching and instruction of the Lord! If their speech does not line up with his word, they will have no light of dawn!”

ISAIAH 8:19–20

We have been created for the holy, outrageous, and indescribable. People everywhere are crying out for revelation. “Give me illumination. I want an experience of the supernatural!” They aren’t satisfied with the mundane and ordinary because they were created for so much more! The problem is, when Christianity doesn’t have the signs and wonders the world looks for, they search for it in the occult or other false expressions.

One of the most remarkable and important things we can do is give the world a taste of heaven—a tangible expression of God’s love. It’s one thing to say he knows and loves them, but when we reveal secrets only he knows, it brings the reality of his love to them personally. God alone can foretell the future and guide our lives, but he wants us to tap in to hear what he knows and release it to the world.

Father, I want my life to reflect the reality of heaven. I want to remain close to you and hear your heart for others. Keep me grounded in the Scriptures so I remain free from error. Keep me close to your heart so when you speak, I hear you clearly and follow your leading easily.

JANUARY 24

HIS LIGHT IS SHINING UPON YOU

Those who walked in darkness have seen a radiant light shining upon them. They once lived in the shadows of death, but now a glorious light has dawned!

ISAIAH 9:2

This Scripture is fulfilled every time we feel the darkness closing in and turn to him. Regardless of what we face, despite our trials and even our own sin, mercy is always reaching out. Grace ceaselessly finds a way to illuminate the darkened crevices of our lives. The Savior of the world graciously shines upon all that involves us and draws us close to his heart, where no shadow exists.

When circumstances have distracted us and dragged us down a darkened path, Jesus calls us to shift our gaze. To become aware of the beauty of the dawn as he awakens us to a new and promising day. To embrace his light as it shines upon us. His will for all humanity is clear—we were created to live in the light of his radiant love. Today, the invitation to join him in the place of perfect peace that surpasses understanding is being extended to you.

Lord, when darkness tries to consume me, bathe me in the light of your love. Let wave after wave of your tangible presence overtake me. Lift the heaviness that seeks to weigh me down as I choose to rejoice despite every obstacle. Your love is powerful enough to save the whole world, and you never stop pursuing me!

JANUARY 25

JOY IS COMING

Lord, you have multiplied the nation and given them overwhelming joy! They are ecstatic in your presence and rejoice like those who bring in a great harvest and those who divide up the spoils of victory!

ISAIAH 9:3

This is a prophetic promise of coming revival. God has a fountain of mercy reserved for this day. As the light of Jesus shines forth on the earth, it will bring in a harvest of rejoicing. The people of God are about to arise and spoil the kingdom of darkness as we collaborate with him and take our place in the world.

A sign that God is moving among us is an outbreak of joy. When we embrace our identity and find freedom, confidence, and purpose, we sense his joy rising from deep within. True joy is found in him and experienced when every thought leads to him. He is the One who gives us fullness of joy, and apart from him, we will not have it. He fills our mouths with laughter as a sign that the great ingathering of harvest is here.

Father, magnify my joy as I receive the light of your truth. Increase it as I release this truth to others. Let me be known as someone who keeps my peace and joy, despite opposition. Help me to remain in your presence where there’s fullness of joy. Give me grace to share the good news with those around me so they too may know the depths of your love.

JANUARY 26

SHAKE OFF HEAVINESS

You have broken the chains that have bound your people and lifted off the heavy bar across their shoulders, the rod the oppressor used against them.

ISAIAH 9:4

You weren’t created to carry heavy burdens. It isn’t God’s will for your mind to be glued to your problems. It’s time to live with faith-filled expectation and stop rehearsing every negative detail and to finally—fully—trust him. Take a breath. Remember, you’re free to laugh in the face of opposition and oppression, especially in those seasons. Free to praise yourself into joy. To dance yourself into freedom. To worship until you come into the very presence of God.

Jesus paid the price to free you, but you must do your part. Shake off the heaviness. It’s nothing more than a weighty lie. Exchange negativity for peace and joy by reminding yourself of the good. No matter how hard things are, there’s always something to be thankful for. Depression is anchored in negative thinking. So today, create a list of your blessings and coax your attention back to the One who loves you.

Father, take me higher so I can see my journey from your vantage point. I believe there is more happening behind the scenes, and even in my own heart, than I realize. I lift my heart in praise, knowing you are lifting the burdens from my soul. You are turning my tears of sorrow into tears of joy. I believe it!

JANUARY 27

HE IS YOUR SHALOM

Great and vast is his dominion. He will bring immeasurable peace and prosperity. ... The marvelous passion that the Lord Yahweh, Commander of Angel Armies, has for his people will ensure that it is finished!

ISAIAH 9:7

Think about this: The Omnipotent God, who created heaven and earth, is moved by you. Cares for you. Gave all he possibly could to ensure you would have everything you need in this life and the life to come. He commands angel armies, has dominion over all living things, yet he takes time to protect, provide, and nourish you.