Today’s Reading, Isaiah 49-53
Focal Scripture: Isaiah 53:6 “We all went astray like sheep; we all have turned to our own way; and the Lord has punished him for the iniquity of us all.”
I have had the privilege of having some very good friends in my life. These friends, on occasion have taken blame and punishment for me that was rightfully mine. For instance one time me and a friend were playing pranks on people and it got out of hand fairly quickly. When we threw something at a vehicle it almost caused the person to crash into a tree. The person got out and was very upset, they threatened to call the cops and get us in big trouble. Then my friend’s dad got home and my friend took the blame for everything. He covered for me and I got out of trouble. My friend took the punishment that was rightfully mine.
In today’s reading we see the power of the suffering servants decisions. Even though we run away like sheep and turned to do our own thing, the Lord punished him for us all. This means that the punishment I deserved for my rebellion was placed on this servants back. He bore my death. He bore my pain. He bore my punishment. This servant was none other than Christ himself.
I want you to know that the punishment you deserve has been placed on Jesus. The only way we have our sins forgiven is by putting our faith and trust in the one who redeems. You can view it as an exchange of punishment. Right now you are guilty of sin and if you die in that state you will be judged for all eternity in a place called hell. However, if you put your faith and give your life to Jesus he will make an exchange with you. The punishment you deserve, he will now take. He will be the one to feel Gods wrath. Since Jesus is sinless and perfect he is the only one who doesn’t have eternal consequences for taking on our punishment. His perfection, even in his sacrifice, has given us eternal provision.
The challenge that we have as believers is to make sure that we never get over what Christ has done for us in our lives. A quick way to test that truth is to ask yourself this question, “when is the last time I shared Jesus with others?” That answer will show you if you are still passionate about being saved. Because if you are you want others to experience and receive the greatest gift ever given.
Believer, be encouraged to share your faith because we have been given much from our God. Unbelievers, know your sin is not greater than Jesus. He has already won the victory, you just need to come to him and exchange your life for his forgiveness. I promise you it is worth it and will change your life for the better.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Isaiah 54-58
