Holy by his righteousness

But the Lord Almighty will be exalted by his justice,

and the holy God will show himself holy by his righteousness.                      Isa. 5.16

God’s people are far from Him. They are immersed in sin and wanton living. Woes and judgments are pronounced upon them (5.8-30). The Song of the Vineyard (5.1-7) clearly presents the treatment envisaged for the Lord’s anointed who have strayed so far and low.

The world today is very like the picture of Israel presented in these verses. The world so desperately needs God, yet it does not even know it.

God is there and I believe He will respond to the cries of His people. He will come in justice and His ways will amaze the world. He will show Himself in the holiness and absolute purity of His righteousness, and the world will be astounded.

Lord,

You are both God Almighty, absolute and omnipotent, and also Heavenly Father, loving and caring. You are many other things also. I salute You and bow before You in every one of Your magnificent expressions.

I bow down with a plea for this sick world. The world needs Jesus. The world neither sees nor acknowledges this, yet the need remains and it is a great and urgent need.

Your people can do so much. In valour the Word may be spoken. But ears need to be opened and hearts softened to receive Your Word and to respond in acceptance.

Hear my prayer, Lord. Open the ears and minds of the unbelieving. Soften their hearts. Prepare then to receive the good news. And raise up many willing messengers to deliver the Word. Empower them and send them out to freely speak of You, to be true witnesses to Jesus in every part of the world.

This world needs You. Hear my prayer. Come to your people – all of them. Let them know Your justice. Let them see Your righteousness. In Jesus’ name I ask.                   Amen.