Summary

World leaders planning evil conspiracies. They plot in the dark the downfall of good people. Isaiah is given special insight to what is coming against God’s people. While everyone is worried, Isaiah warns “not to think like everyone else does.” (Isaiah 8:11). They are not to live in dread like everyone else does. People live in longing and confusion. God is more powerful than any human conspiracy or plan. Instead they must listen to God and they will be secure - knowing that God is with us and above it all.

God

Waters of Shiloh is calm and gentle in comparison to the vicious flooding of the Euphrates. This is a picture of God. God is different from other gods. It is easy to wonder what God is up to and why he is allowing these things to happen. God is not surprised by evil and will bring his plans to fruition. We are called not to rely on ourselves or turn to the darkness, but to continue listening to God’s Word (Isaiah 8:20).

Gospel

It is good news that God doesn’t want us to live in fear. Jesus came to take our fear away and to give us peace. Jesus commands us to not worry. Look to God’s creation to learn how to trust God. We must instead seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you (Matthew 6).

Reflection

What fears might you hand over to Jesus today?