January 22, 2016 Bible Study – Isaiah 46:1-13

Today’s Bible study is Isaiah 46:1-13.  In this passage, God continues to ask His people to compare Him to idols made by men.  In previous challenges, He declared the foolishness of making idols out of wood.  In this passage, He asks if silver and gold are any better.  Almighty God, Creator of the Universe is above all.  Take a look at what the Hubble Space telescope found (below right).  Scientists have no idea what they are seeing.

Hubble Mystery

1. What is the main point of this passage? In verses 1 and 2, God describes idols as beasts of burden that might be able to carry a heavy load.  However, if they spill the load they will not be able to recover it.  In verses 3 and 4, He declares that He alone carries us.  He carries us when we are young, when we think we are strong, and when we are old.  Our culture wants to eliminate the elderly.  I can hear their argument.  “Well, since you can no longer be a contributor to society, your life has no value to the community, and it certainly has no value to you anymore.”  In verses 5 through 7, God proclaims that He is greater than gold and silver.  That seems obvious but people do stupid things.  They hire a gold or silversmith to manufacture the image they want to worship.  They sit or stand it in a place.  The idol cannot move, hear, or answer when called upon by the worshiper.  The unbeliever has no idea who created him or her.  In verses 8 through 11, God calls His people to remember all that He has done for them.  He promises to fulfill His word and He will accomplish His purposes in His timing.  Finally, in verses 12 and 13 God promises to bring salvation according to His terms, and based on His schedule.  At the appropriate time, He will reveal His glory for His purposes and on behalf of Israel.
2. What does God reveal about Himself?  Once again, He make it clear, He cannot be compared to any created thing or god of man’s imagination.  He is the One who carries His people.  He has a plan.  He is executing His plan to His schedule and He will reveal His glory at the appointed time.
3. What insights can I apply to my life? I must remember all God has done for me, and for Mary and I as husband and wife.  He has blessed our family, friends, fellowship, and neighborhood.  He has been good to us.  Thank you seems like a shallow expression.
4. How can I use this passage to honor God?  I will trust Him for today, tomorrow, and the future.
5. Where is God working in my life today?  Father, I thank You for saving me.  I thank You for blessing me with Mary.  I thank You for our family, friends, fellowship, and neighborhood.  You are the Almighty Creator of the Universe.  Thank You for letting us see a portion of Your majestic creation. Amen.

Thanks for reading and praying.