Moment With The Master
“Uncertain Times”
Categories: Moment With The MasterThe LORD of hosts, Him you shall hallow; Let Him be your fear, And let Him be your dread. He will be as a sanctuary, But a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense To both the houses of Israel, As a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem. (Isaiah 8:13-14)
Each year Americans exercise their right to vote for those they wish to lead our nation. As I grow older, I find election day to be a troubling time because it reminds me of the decline of the strong nation I knew as a boy.
It must have been equally challenging for any God-fearing Jew during the days of Isaiah. Judah’s king, Ahaz was an extremely wicked ruler. Tired of the inefficiency of Ahaz, they watched for the approach of powerful nations from the north. Assyria would come as a mighty flood to punish and purify Israel. Where would God-fearing people turn?
Instead of fearing men, Isaiah is encouraged to recognize the power of God. This time honored principle had been invoked since the days of Moses. "You shall fear the LORD your God and serve Him, and shall take oaths in His name. (Deuteronomy 6:13 ) If one fears God, he need not fear any other.
One may fear men because of their power to do us hurt. Men may injure our reputation, our property, our loved ones, or even our lives. In fact a certain fear of civil authority is healthy. However, one’s fear of man can also be harmful by weakening him morally. This condition may motivate one to applaud evil and condemn the Truth.
However, the fear of God is the fountain of life. (Proverbs 14:27) It is the beginning of wisdom and a deterrent from evil. As our respect of God deepens, so should our hatred of evil. Those who will live in the fear of God have an unshakable foundation.
Thus, the prophet gives us two clear possibilities with God: ether a “sanctuary” or a “rock of offense”. The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; And He knows those who trust in Him. (Nahum 1:7) However, for unbelievers God can be stone over which they will fall and be broken.
In uncertain times, even at all times we must not concern ourselves with what man can do to us, but rather what God can do for us. Make God your friend and he will be to you a fountain of everlasting joy.
By George Slover
