August Devotional Journal 2019

AUGUS T

By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested?

For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.

ISAIAH 53:8 (NIV)

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DEVOTIONA L JOUR NA L AU G U S T 2 0 19

By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.

ISAIAH 53:8 (NIV)

Also available at www.cefc.org.sg and “Covenant EFC” mobile app.

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VERSES 2019

JANUARY

Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?

ISAIAH 53:1 (NIV)

FEBRUARY He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.

ISAIAH 53:2 (NIV)

MARCH He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised, and we held him in low esteem.

ISAIAH 53:3 (NIV)

APRIL Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering, yet we considered him punished by God, stricken by him, and afflicted.

ISAIAH 53:4 (NIV)

M AY

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.

ISAIAH 53:5 (NIV)

JUNE We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

ISAIAH 53:6 (NIV) 4 // Š 2 0 1 9 C O V E N A N T E V A N G E L I C A L F R E E C H U R C H

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J U LY He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth.

ISAIAH 53:7 (NIV)

AUGUST By oppression and judgment he was taken away. Yet who of his generation protested? For he was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people he was punished.

ISAIAH 53:8 (NIV)

SEPTEMBER He was assigned a grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth.

ISAIAH 53:9 (NIV)

OCTOBER Yet it was the LORD’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the LORD makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the LORD will prosper in his hand.

ISAIAH 53:10 (NIV)

NOVEMBER After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.

ISAIAH 53:11 (NIV)

DECEMBER Therefore I will give him a portion among the great, and he will divide the spoils with the strong, because he poured out his life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors. For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

ISAIAH 53:12 (NIV) Š 2 0 1 9 C O V E N A N T E V A N G E L I C A L F R E E C H U R C H // 5

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// B Y S E N I O R P A S T O R S //

2019 is the Year of Proclamation – That None Should Perish!

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elebration of Hope (COH) which runs from 17 to 19 May is not mass evangelism on a large scale, but personal evangelism on a massive scale. In other words, unless we pray and sow the Gospel into as many people as possible on a personal basis, we will not see a massive conversion of souls. If we expect 2019 to be a year of harvest for our family and friends, then we have to prepare for it.

When we were praying on the mountain during our annual Listening Retreat in July 2018, these verses from the book of Acts convicted us: Acts 8:8 “And there was much joy in that city” The context was the revival in Samaria under Philip’s ministry. Imagine the joy in Singapore when, under the preaching of the Gospel and the power of God, many people are healed of various sicknesses and delivered from spiritual oppression!

Acts 13:44 “The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord.” Back then in Pisidian Antioch, huge crowds came to listen to Paul’s preaching. Imagine large multitudes turning up at the Sports Hub at each COH rally to hear the Gospel!

Acts 13:47 (cf. Isa 49:6) “For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.”

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“Isaiah” means “The LORD is Salvation”. Preaching through the book of Isaiah in 2019 will challenge us to fulfil our calling to be a light to the nations!

During that same retreat, we received news about a crisis in Northern Thailand. On 23 June last year, 12 teenage boys and their soccer coach were trapped 2.5 miles inside the Tham Luang cave complex after heavy rains flooded it and cut off their exit route. On 2 July, they were found by two British expert cave divers. A rescue operation was carefully planned. There were 1,800 rescue personnel from 18 countries. In the midst of the rescue preparation, a tragedy happened. Mr Kunan, a volunteer and former Thai Navy SEAL diver, died while transporting air tanks into the tunnels. Although it was an extremely difficult rescue mission, all 13 survivors were eventually rescued from the cave on 10 July. Many people did their part to rescue them. And one man even gave his life to save them.

So, dear brothers and sisters, let us use this 2019 Devotional Journal to spend daily, dedicated time with the Lord in His Word and in prayer ...

The Scripture verses and the cave rescue were a confirmation of 2019 as the Year of Proclamation. Here was a fresh picture of how the Saviour died on the Cross so that people everywhere can be saved from eternal judgement. Our Lord Jesus has given us the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. So, dear brothers and sisters, let us use this 2019 Devotional Journal to spend daily, dedicated time with the Lord in His Word and in prayer, so that we can know Him more, and be led and empowered

by His Spirit to be faithful witnesses for a fruitful harvest in 2019!

In Christ, Rev Tony Yeo and Rev Tan Kay Kiong

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TO USING

THIS DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL

Step One

Prepare your heart in God’s presence // Select a fixed time (preferably in the morning before you begin your day) and a quiet place where you can be alone and undisturbed. // Observe a moment of silence as you acknowledge God’s presence. Centre down. // Begin with a song of worship. Meditate on the lyrics even if you are unfamiliar with the tune. (Refer to the list of worship songs provided.) // Ask God to open your heart to hear Him.

SOMETHING TO PONDER ...

Examining your life is essential in your faith journey.

Your redeemed life as a disciple of Christ deserves careful examining. May you take root and bear fruit in Him!

The English Standard Version (ESV) is the default Bible version translation unless otherwise specified.

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Step Two

Allow God to S.O.A.P. you with His Word and Spirit // Scripture – Take your time to meditate on the Scripture passage for the day. Pause and mull over words and phrases that stand out to you. // Observation – Jot down significant insights and reflections from the passage you have read. You may use the guiding questions provided. The “Deeper Reflection” section is to aid your contemplation of the Scripture. It is not to replace your own observation, for the Holy Spirit illuminates the Scripture to you as you seek Him earnestly. // Application – Note down a specific and practical commitment to God’s Word for you. Is there a command to obey, a sin to avoid, an example to follow, or a principle to live out? Where appropriate, share your devotional entry with someone. // Prayer – Bring your heartfelt response to God in prayer.

P R AY E R P O I N T E R S F O R 2 0 1 9 Prayer pointers for Pastors and Staff are included every Tuesday. Every Thursday, a prayer pointer is included for Outreach/Missions/New Life Leaders. On each Friday, there is a prayer pointer for SGI Leaders (e.g. Zone Mentors, CG Leaders and Assistant CG Leaders). A prayer pointer for Church Board Members is included every Saturday.

Please pray for each group as well as any specific individuals whom God may bring to your mind.

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J U LY– A U G U S T

NEW WINE Verse In the crushing, in the pressing You are making new wine In the soil I now surrender You are breaking new ground (You are breaking new ground) Pre-Chorus So I yield to You and to Your careful hand When I trust You I don’t need to understand Chorus (So) Make me Your vessel Make me an offering Make me whatever You want me to be (God) I came here with nothing But all You have given me Jesus, bring new wine out of me Tag Jesus bring new wine out of me Jesus bring new wine out of me Bridge ‘Cause where there is new wine There is new power There is new freedom And the kingdom is here I lay down my old flames To carry Your new fire today Brooke Ligertwood © 2017 Hillsong Music Publishing For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 7102397 CCLI Licence # 324618

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LET THERE BE LIGHT Verse 1 There’s no darkness in Your eyes There’s no question in Your mind God Almighty, God of mercy There’s no hiding from Your face There’s no striving in Your grace God of mercy, God Almighty Chorus 1 Let there be light Open the eyes of the blind Purify our hearts in Your fire Breathe in us we pray (Jesus have Your way) Verse 2 There’s no borders in Your love No division in Your heart God of heaven, God of freedom There’s no taking back the cross No regret in what it cost God of freedom, God of heaven Chorus 2 Let there be light Open our eyes to Your heart Desperate just to know who You are Shine in us we pray Jesus have Your way Bridge Good news embracing the poor Comfort for all those who mourn For the broken-hearted we sing louder Release from prison and shame Oppression turning to praise For every captive, sing louder Restoring sight to the blind

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Breaking the curse of the night For all in darkness, sing louder Proclaiming freedom for all This is the day of the Lord Beauty for ashes Verse 3 Let the light that shines above Become the light that shine in us There’s no darkness in Your way So have Your way Lord have Your way Brooke Ligertwood | Joel Houston | Jonas Myrin | Matt Crocker | Michael Guy Chislett | Scott Ligertwood © 2016 Hillsong Music Publishing For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 7069096 CCLI Licence # 324618

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JESUS LOVES ME Verse 1 It was just three words But it changed my life Just a childlike truth That consumed my mind From my life’s first breath Till the day I rise All I need to know Is this age old line Chorus Jesus loves me This I know Jesus loves me This I know I won’t forget The Bible says That He loves me so Verse 2 It was just three nails That held Him on that cross But God was not restrained For He was there by choice As He gave His life For a world He loved So the earth replied In this age old song Bridge Yes Jesus loves me And His love won’t forsake me I know Oh yes Jesus loves me Oh He loves me so

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Verse 3 It was just three days But it changed our world For when there seemed no way From the grave He rose Tag Oh He loves me so How I love You Lord Aodhan King | Benjamin Hastings | Marty Sampson © 2018 Hillsong Music Publishing For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 7109512 CCLI Licence # 324618

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CORNERSTONE Verse 1 My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness I dare not trust the sweetest frame But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name (Repeat) Chorus Christ alone, cornerstone Weak made strong in the Saviour’s love Through the storm He is Lord Lord of all Verse 2 When darkness seems to hide His face I rest on His unchanging grace In every high and stormy gale My anchor holds within the veil My anchor holds within the veil Interlude He is Lord Lord of all Verse 3 When He shall come with trumpet sound Oh may I then in Him be found Dressed in His righteousness alone Faultless stand before the throne Edward Mote | Eric Liljero | Jonas Myrin | Reuben Morgan | William Batchelder Bradbury Year & Publisher : © 2011 Hillsong Music Publishing CCLI Licence # 324618 CCLI Song # 6158927

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CHRIST IS ENOUGH Verse 1 Christ is my reward and all of my devotion Now there’s nothing in this world That could ever satisfy Through every trial my soul will sing No turning back I’ve been set free Chorus Christ is enough for me Christ is enough for me Everything I need is in You Everything I need Verse 2 Christ my all in all the joy of my salvation And this hope will never fail Heaven is our home Through every storm my soul will sing Jesus is here to God be the glory Bridge 1 I have decided to follow Jesus No turning back, no turning back Bridge 2 The cross before me the world behind me No turning back, no turning back Jonas Myrin | Reuben Morgan © 2012 Hillsong Music Publishing CCLI Song # 6514035 CCLI License # 324618

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HOLY SPIRIT (LIVING BREATH OF GOD) Verse 1 Holy Spirit, living Breath of God Breathe new life into my willing soul Let the presence of the risen Lord Come renew my heart and make me whole Cause Your word to come alive in me Give me faith for what I cannot see Give me passion for Your purity Holy Spirit, breathe new life in me Verse 2 Holy Spirit, come abide within May Your joy be seen in all I do Love enough to cover every sin In each thought and deed and attitude Kindness to the greatest and the least Gentleness that sows the path of peace Turn my strivings into works of grace Breath of God show Christ in all I do Verse 3 Holy Spirit from creation’s birth Giving life to all that God has made Show Your power once again on earth Cause Your church to hunger for Your ways Let the fragrance of our prayers arise Lead us on the road of sacrifice That in unity the face of Christ May be clear for all the world to see Keith Getty | Stuart Townend © 2006 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 4779872 CCLI License # 324618

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YOU, YOU ARE GOD Verse 1 Here I am, I’ve come to find You Here I am to see Your grace To bring to You an offering I have to ask myself one thing How can I do anything but praise I praise Chorus (You) You are God, You are Lord You are all I’m living for You are King of eve’rything I want my life to praise You Verse 2 Here I am, I’ve come to thank You Here I am, a life You’ve changed Because You gave Your life for me You crucified Your Son for me How can I do anything but praise I praise Ending I want my life to praise You I want my life to praise You Walker Beach © 2003 Gateway Create Publishing (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI Song # 4389918 CCLI License # 324618

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NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE Chorus Through You I can do anything I can do all things ‘Cause it’s You who gives me strength Nothing is impossible Through You blind eyes are open Strongholds are broken I am living by faith Nothing is impossible Verse I’m not gonna live by what I see I’m not gonna live by what I feel Pre-Chorus Deep down I know that You’re here with me And I know that You can do anything Bridge I believe, I believe I believe, I believe in You (Repeat) Joth Hunt © 2008 Integrity Worship Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Planetshakers Ministries Int. Inc. (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 5199808 CCLI License # 324618

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IN JESUS’ NAME Verse 1 God is fighting for us, God is on our side He has overcome yes He has overcome We will not be shaken, we will not be moved Jesus You are here (oh) Verse 2 Carrying our burdens covering our shame He has overcome, yes He has overcome We will not be shaken, we will not be moved Jesus You are here Chorus 1 I will live, I will not die The resurrection power of Christ alive in me And I am free in Jesus’ Name Chorus 2 I will live, I will not die I will declare and lift You high Christ revealed and I am healed in Jesus’ Name Bridge God is fighting for us, pushing back the darkness Lighting up the Kingdom that cannot be shaken In the Name of Jesus enemy’s defeated And we will shout it out, shout it out Ending In Jesus’ Name In Jesus’ Name In Jesus’ Name oh Darlene Zschech | Israel Houghton © 2013 EWI (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Integrity Worship Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Integrity’s Praise! Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.); Sound Of The New Breed (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 6454638 CCLI License # 324618

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GOD IS HERE Intro Oh oh oh Oh oh oh Verse 1 Open our eyes Lord, we want to see You Open our hearts Lord, we want to know You Open our ears Lord, we need to hear You Jesus be revealed Jesus be revealed Chorus God is here, God is here God is here, He is able We draw near to see Jesus face to face God is here, God is here God is here, He is faithful We draw near to see Jesus Oh Jesus be revealed Verse 2 Open the gates Lord, reveal Your glory Open the nations, establish Your Kingdom Open the Heavens, pour out Your Spirit Jesus be revealed Jesus be revealed Bridge Holy, we cry holy Hallelujah God is here Holy, we cry holy Hallelujah God is here (Repeat) Darlene Zschech | Israel Houghton | Phil Wickham © EWI (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Integrity Worship Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Integrity’s Praise! Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Sound Of The New Breed (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing); Phil Wickham Music (Admin. by Simpleville Music, Inc.); Seems Like Music (Admin. by Simpleville Music, Inc.) CCLI Song # 6454669 CCLI License # 324618

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THURSDAY // 01 AUGUST 2019

Little Worm Facing the Mountains S CRIPTURE Isaiah 41:14-16

O B S E RVAT I O N What is the significance of what God made Israel, the little worm, become?

DEEPER REFLECTION

S

tanding on the threefold divine assurance of “Do not fear, I will help you” (Isa 41:10, 13, 14), the little worm Israel next faced “the mountains” (v.15). The “mountains” symbolise the seemingly impossible and impenetrable,1 which for Israel was powerful Babylon. The key is divine transformation: What God has made us into – “I have made you a new, sharp threshing sledge” (v.15). A threshing sledge is normally used to work on the ground, not “mountains”! Note the singular “threshing sledge” contrasting the plural “mountains”.

The worm is transformed into a threshing sledge “of such mammoth proportions”2 that mountains are chopped into “chaff” and carried away by the wind and storm (vv.15-16a). “Wind” and “storm” are often used to symbolise God’s action-presence (Job 38:1; 40:6). God is on our side as “the Holy One of Israel” (vv.14, 16; mark the phrase “of Israel”) to scatter and remove what stands in our way. The worm remains small and weak, but is “strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might” (Col 1:11), with God’s power being perfected in weakness through His all-sufficient grace (2 Cor 12:9-10). And we “rejoice” and “glory” in God, not ourselves, when mountains are overcome or levelled (v.16b).

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I face the “mountains” that are before me now?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for Outreach/Missions/ New Life leaders: To be strengthened to face “mountains” courageously

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

1 2

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries, Volume 20 (IVP, 1999), 288 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 287 © 2 0 1 9 C O V E N A N T E V A N G E L I C A L F R E E C H U R C H // 23

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FRIDAY // 02 AUGUST 2019

God Answers as Covenant God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 41:17

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God and our seeking for water in our thirst?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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n their wilderness journey, the little worm Israel was “afflicted” and “needy”. “Afflicted” or “poor” means “lowly” and “downtrodden, crushed under life’s burden” (Isa 10:2),3 and “needy” means “resourceless” and “bending to life’s more powerful forces”4. Israel was thirsty. “Thirst” can be understood metaphorically as a lack of anything necessary for a healthy life, including spiritual necessities.5 We can be in situations where we keep seeking the water that we critically and desperately need, even with prayer (it is not explicit here that Israel’s seeking for water included prayer6), but “there is no water” and we remain “parched with thirst”. All human resources, attempts and effort failed, like the woman who suffered a haemorrhage for 12 years (Mk 5:25-26). We may have to wait, however long, but eventually, it will be that “I, the LORD, will answer them Myself ”. Note the phrase, “I…Myself ”. It has to be only God and God alone, and God Himself, as the answer to our thirst. No one else and nothing else. And God “will answer” us as our covenant God, “as the God of Israel”, who will not fail to keep His covenant commitment to us, defined as “I will not forsake them”.

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A P P L I CAT I O N In what ways is God’s promise that He will not forsake me applicable to me now?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for SGI leaders: To be strong in the God who will not forsake them // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

3

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 288 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 288 Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, Vol. 15B, The New American Commentary (Broadman & Holman, 2009), 140 6 Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 140, and footnote 192 4 5

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SATURDAY // 03 AUGUST 2019

That We May Know God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 41:17-20

O B S E RVAT I O N What is the significance of verse 20 in the context of verses 17 to 20?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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oing through the wilderness like Israel in exile with hopes gone and dreams broken, and spiritually dry and desolate (v.17a), is necessary in biblical discipleship. No one likes the wilderness journey that keeps us continually “parched with thirst”, but it is a divine necessity. In that wilderness, we seek water – whatever that will take us out of or see us through the wilderness journey. In His own time and way, God will answer us Himself (v.17b). God turns and transforms (“I will open … I will make”) our wilderness and dry land into “rivers”, “springs”, “pools of water” and “fountains of water” (v.18).

And God suddenly and miraculously makes the barren wilderness fertile and fruitful (v.19). What a picture of abnormal abundance! But it is easy for us to only dwell on and relish God’s abundant blessings, and think that this is God’s purpose for our wilderness journey. Attached to God’s abundant blessings (vv.18-19) is the purpose statement, “that they may see and recognise…consider and gain insight” about God Himself (v.20). “See and recognise” relates to “learning that comes from first-hand experience”, “consider and gain insight” connotes “reflection which will translate knowledge into appropriate action”7. Our wilderness journey is to end with us knowing God deeper.

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A P P L I CAT I O N What changes do I need to make in my perspective and posture in my wilderness journey?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for church board: To know God deeply in their wilderness journey // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

7

John N. Oswalt, The Book of Isaiah Chapters 40-66 (The New International Commentary on the Old Testament (Eerdmans, 1998), 96 Š 2 0 1 9 C O V E N A N T E V A N G E L I C A L F R E E C H U R C H // 27

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SUNDAY // 04 AUGUST 2019

Sunday Journal

S CRIPTURE

O B S E RVAT I O N

A P P L I CAT I O N

P R AY E R

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THE PAST WEEK Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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THE PAST WEEK Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? Commit in prayer.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

AUGUST 2019 WEEK 1

IS THERE TRUTH APART FROM GOD’S WORD?

There is no other truth except the truth in God’s Word.

Scripture: Deuteronomy 5 ACTIVITY BITE Play the Snakes and Ladders game with your family without following the rules. Every player can choose to follow their own rules, such as taking two turns or switching places with the player in the lead. After the game, get everyone to share how they felt about the game. Discuss why rules are necessary.

CHAT TIME Q1: Why did God create the commandments?

Q2: What do the commandments tell us about God? Q3: How does following God’s Word and commandments help us every day?

LEARNING POINT God chose the Israelites to be His people and led them out from Egypt into the Promised Land. He expected them to be grateful and choose to do what was right and pleasing to Him. But the Israelites continued to be disobedient and wanted to follow their own ways. Thus God gave them His Word of truth or commandments so that they would follow His ways. God gives us His Word of truth and if we follow it, we will be blessed.

ACTION POINT Write down the Ten Commandments on a piece of paper. Get your family members to identify one commandment that he or she finds hard to follow and write down what he or she will do to fulfil it.

FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Thank God for blessing us with the ability to learn about His Word and commandments. Pray for an obedient heart to follow God’s teachings in the Bible.

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MONDAY // 05 AUGUST 2019

What’s Your Perception of God? S CRIPTURE Isaiah 41:21-29

O B S E RVAT I O N What are two dominant recurring ideas in verses 22 to 24, 26 and 29, and what is their significance in the context?

DEEPER REFLECTION

G

od was not speaking to idol-gods or their worshippers, but to His people in exile, through an imaginary court trial of “Who is the true God?” (vv.21-29). Why? Because they feared the gods of the nations8 who appeared to have dwarfed their God. God the Creator (Isa 40:12, 22, 26, 28) and Lord of history (v.25) arbitrarily set the test standard and challenged the idol-gods: The God who holds, knows and can foretell the future and bring it to pass is the true God – as expressed in recurring statements like “Declare what is going to take place…that we may know that you are gods” (vv.22, 23, 26).

There was no response from these idol-gods, because they could not speak. Then came the divine verdict: These gods were “nothing” (v.24), “false”, “worthless” and “wind and emptiness” (v.29). And this also means that the theology of the followers of idol-gods is useless, based on delusional claims, empty talk, no real deeds and false promises.9 What is your perception of God? Is it just an illusion that arises from your own presuppositions, modern cultural impressions, religious tradition or personal desires? Or it is informed and formed by the Scriptures in which God has revealed Himself?

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A P P L I CAT I O N What changes do I need to make to my perception of God?

Se

lf

need

9

e in

8

Thos

Leaders

O God, exalted and wholly other, forgive me for having a view of You that is formed by my own presuppositions, modern cultural impressions, religious Gi vin tradition and personal desires. This is gt ha nk man making God according to his own s image. It is idolatrous. Deliver me from this! Open my eyes that I may see and know You in the Scriptures as You have revealed Yourself.

Significant people

P R AY E R

Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 147 Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 151

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TUESDAY // 06 AUGUST 2019

God’s Word and Our Future S CRIPTURE

Isaiah 41:21-23, 26; 2 Peter 1:3-4; 3:3-4, 8-9, 13

O B S E RVAT I O N What does the Word of God tell us about the promises of God (2 Pet 1:3-4; 3:3-4, 8-9, 13)?

DEEPER REFLECTION

W

hen God challenged the idol-gods to “declare”, “announce” and “proclaim” the future, so as to prove to be the true God, it presupposes that God Himself can do it (vv.21-23, 26). Indeed, God can, and He has done it. The verbs “declare”, “announce” and “proclaim” are acts of speaking; and when God is made the subject of these verbs, we are talking about the Word of God. The Word of God speaks and assures us about the future and our future, by which we are to live our lives. It is called the “precious and magnificent promises” of God (2 Pet 1:4), of which the most important of all is “the promise of His coming” and “His promise” of “new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells” (2 Pet 3:4, 9, 13). “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow” (Matt 6:33-34, NLT) is an example of God’s promise concerning our future, which we are so prone to be anxious about.

It is characteristic of God’s promises to demand trusting, hoping and waiting with patience and perseverance, and to do so frequently in “hope against hope” circumstances (Rom 4:18-21).

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I look at my future by the Word of God?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for pastors and staff: To look at their future by the Word of God

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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WEDNESDAY // 07 AUGUST 2019

“My Servant”: Who Is He? S CRIPTURE

Isaiah 42:1-4; 41:8-10; Matthew 12:15-21

O B S E RVAT I O N Who is this “My Servant” (v.1) according to verses 1 to 4, Isaiah 41:8-10 and Matthew 12:15-21?

DEEPER REFLECTION

I

n Isaiah 40 and 41, God comforted and encouraged His people in exile to look to Him and trust in Him, the Sovereign Creator God over nations and history, and not to fear the arrogant dominant Babylonians and their gods (Isa 40:12-26; 41:10-16, 21-29). What follows next is: “Behold, My Servant” (v.1). This Servant is described as “My Servant, whom I uphold, My chosen one” (v.1) – an exact description of Israel (Isa 41:8-10). This Servant is called to advance the kingdom of God worldwide: to “bring forth justice to the nations” (vv.1, 4) and be “a light to the nations” (Isa 42:6). Is this Servant Israel, and in continuity, the Church, the new covenant Israel consisting of Jews and Gentiles (Eph 2:11-22; 1 Pet 2:9-10)? There are two servants of the Lord in Isaiah 40 to 66: Israel as a nation collectively; and a unique individual, God’s Ideal Servant,10 who is mentioned in the five “Servant Songs”11. For Israel, the words of comfort (Isa 40-41) were followed by the commission as “My Servant” (vv.1-4). But Israel was unable to be the Ideal Servant that God demanded. Jesus Christ is that Ideal Servant of the Lord, fulfilling verses 1 to 3 (Matt 12:15-21), because He is the True Israel. And now in Christ and with Christ, the crucified-resurrected-exalted Servant of the Lord, the new covenant Israel advances the kingdom of God as “My Servant”.

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A P P L I CAT I O N What does it mean for me to be called “My servant” by God?

P R AY E R Lord, I thank You that You have

Prayer Pointers

called and chosen me to be Your servant. What an honour it is

// Give thanks:

that God calls me “My servant”!

What a privilege of grace! As Your servant, I have only one task: to do Your will. So, fill me with the knowledge of Your

// Pray for leaders:

will in all Spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that I may walk with You and serve You in a manner worthy of You.12

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

10

11 12

See Devotional Journal 2019, February 8, The Servant of God Isaiah 42:1-4; 49:1-7; 50:4-11; 52:13 – 53:12; 61:1-3 Colossians 1:9-10

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THURSDAY // 08 AUGUST 2019

“My Servant”: Justice for Humanity S CRIPTURE

Isaiah 42:1-4; Matthew 12:15-21

O B S E RVAT I O N What characterises the Servant of the Lord in verses 1 to 4?

DEEPER REFLECTION

T

he mission of “My Servant” is to “bring justice” to humanity (vv.1, 3, 4). Establishing justice is a primary responsibility that a political leader should carry out. But most have failed as evidenced by more of humanity suffering injustice throughout history.

To establish justice means to reorder social life and social power so that the poor, weak and vulnerable may live a life of dignity, security and well-being.13 The hope of justice for humanity lies in the Gospel of the Servant-King, that is lived out and proclaimed. What characterises the Servant of Justice? He comes and acts quietly without seeking publicity and with no outward show (v.2; Matt 12:15-16).14 A key test of justice is how “a bruised reed” and “a dimly burning wick” are treated (v.3).

These two objects are symbolic of weak, broken and frail people who are discarded as unimportant, worthless, expendable, useless and unworthy of help. Political leaders (and Christian leaders, too!) often care more about the accomplishment of tasks and frequently show little compassionate care and concern for the weak and lowly. But this Servant-King will not “break” or “extinguish” the lowly and weak (v.3). Let us in Christ and with Christ be such a Servant like Christ to one another and to the world “until He has established justice in the earth” (v.4).

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A P P L I CAT I O N What does it mean for me to bring justice to humanity like the Servant of the Lord?

P R AY E R Prayer Pointers

Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for Outreach/Missions/ New Life leaders: To be characterised by compassion and justice

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

13 14

Walter Brueggemann, Isaiah 40-66 (Westminster John Knox Press, 1998), 42 Allan Harman, Isaiah, Focus on the Bible (Christian Focus, 2005), 324, 330

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FRIDAY // 09 AUGUST 2019

“My Servant”: Glory of God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 42:5-12

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about the glory of God?

DEEPER REFLECTION

T

he Servant of the Lord brings justice to humanity by being “a light to the nations” (v.6) and delivering people from the prison of spiritual blindness, darkness and lostness (v.7). A vital means of spiritually enlightening the nations is through the teaching of God’s Word15 (Isa 2:2-3). When Jesus saw the “large crowd” “like sheep without a shepherd”, He “felt compassion for them” and “began to teach them many things” (Mk 6:33-34). The ultimate purpose of the Servant’s mission is the glory of God: “I will not give My glory to another, nor My praise…” (v.8) and “Let them give glory to the LORD and declare His praise…” (v.12). God’s glory is manifested in His sovereignty and salvation. In His sovereignty: Unlike the idol-gods, God knows and holds history, and He can foretell the future and fulfils it (v.9). In His salvation: Just like “the former things” of Israel’s exodus from Egypt, God will do “new things” of Israel’s exodus from Babylon and redemption from spiritual blindness and darkness (vv.7, 9).16 God’s self-declaration of His glory (vv.8-9) leads to doxology from His redeemed people (vv.10-12).

Let us be careful not to take God’s glory to make it our glory. Be like the Servant-King: “I do not seek My glory” (Jn 8:50) and “I do not receive glory from people” (Jn 5:41).

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A P P L I CAT I O N What does it mean for me to be a servant of the Lord with the glory of God as the ultimate purpose?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for SGI leaders: To live by Jesus’ prayer, “Father, glorify Your name.” // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

15 16

Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 169 Allan Harman, 328

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SATURDAY // 10 AUGUST 2019

A Divine Time of Everything S CRIPTURE Isaiah 42:13-17

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God in verses 14 to 16?

DEEPER REFLECTION

V

erses 14 to 16 are filled with God. The three verses are filled with 15 first person verbs of divine acts: I-was-silent, I-wasquiet, I-held-Myself-back, I-cry-out, I-gasp, I-pant (v.14); I-will-lay-waste, I-will-dry-up, I-will-turn, I-will-dry-up (v.15); I-willlead, I-will-guide, I-will-turn, I-will-do and I-will-forsake not (v.16).

This brief text shows that there is a divine time of everything.17 There is a time of divine silence, which can be “for a long time” (v.14a). For Israel, it was exile in Babylon. Divine silence is not divine absence. It is not easy to live with divine silence. We are permitted to ask, “How long, O Lord?” (Psa 13:1). But this is where our trust and hope in God grows in strength and depth. The Babylonian arrogance and dominance may seem to go unchecked and uncontrolled. But there is a time of divine overturning of Babylon (v.15). And there is a time of divine enlightenment of the spiritually “blind” who are living in “darkness” and unable to perceive the “way” they are supposed to follow (v.16). Do you see yourself belonging to this group of people? There is redemptive hope from God. How much more will God “lead” and “guide” us and “make” our “darkness into light” when we stretch out our hand to Him. And what divine assurance: “I will not forsake them”!

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I see the divine timing of everything in my discipleship journey?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for church board: To discern divine timing in life and ministry // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

17

Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 180

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SUNDAY // 11 AUGUST 2019

Sunday Journal

S CRIPTURE

O B S E RVAT I O N

A P P L I CAT I O N

P R AY E R

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THE PAST WEEK Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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THE PAST WEEK Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? Commit in prayer.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

AUGUST 2019 WEEK 2

DOES THE BIBLE HELP ME TO KNOW GOD? God’s Word helps us to grow in knowing Him. Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16

ACTIVITY BITE Play the Bible Charades game with your family. Write the names of Bible characters on small pieces of paper and hand them to someone to act out, while the others guess the character. Review how everyone fared in this game and what they learnt from it.

CHAT TIME Q1: Who is the author of the Bible? What can we find in the Bible?

Q2: Why do you think God encourages us to read and know the Bible?

Q3: How does reading and knowing the Bible help us to know God’s character better?

LEARNING POINT The Bible is God’s Word. Having some Bible knowledge, such as how the books are arranged in the Old and New Testament and where to find the different Bible stories are some basic skills.

These skills help us to grow in understanding what God likes or dislikes, and how He will bless anyone who follows His ways or punish those who are against Him. It also helps us to develop our discipline in areas such as memorising Bible verses and writing journals in the future.

ACTION POINT Get your family members to take turns selecting a verse of the week for everyone to memorise. Each week, the person who chooses the verse should explain why it holds special meaning for him or her.

FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Thank God for making the Bible available to many today. Pray that God will open our hearts and minds to the Bible so that we may have the confidence and knowledge to share the Truth about Him to others and lead our lives according to His direction.

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MONDAY // 12 AUGUST 2019

A Spiritual Irony and Incongruency S CRIPTURE Isaiah 42:18-21

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about deafness and blindness in verses 18 to 21?

DEEPER REFLECTION

W

e cannot miss the 13 words associated with hearing and seeing that God uses in the three verses (vv.18-20) to talk about spiritual deafness and blindness. Here we see a spiritual irony and incongruency, which unfortunately, is a sad reality.

Despite our relationship with God as “My servant” – “the servant of the LORD”, “My messenger” and “at peace with Me” (v.19) – a very special relationship at that, we can still be spiritually deaf and blind.

What God is underscoring here is that this should not be the case. God calls Israel and us, to recognise our heart’s condition: “You have seen many things, but you do not observe them; your ears are open, but none hears” (v.20). Spiritual deafness and blindness is a heart condition (Isa 6:9-10). What are the “many things” that we “have seen” and how are our “ears” “open”, and yet we can be spiritually blind and deaf (v.20)?

We have God’s revelation: God’s “great and glorious” “law” – the Scriptures − that reveal “His righteousness” (v.21). The Word of God is available to us, but we ignore, neglect or trivialise it to our spiritual detriment. To guard against or save ourselves from spiritual deafness and blindness, we need to carefully “hear” and intently “look” at the Word of God (v.18).

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A P P L I CAT I O N What can possibly cause me to be spiritually deaf or blind, and how can I safeguard against this?

P R AY E R O God, I confess that I am

Prayer Pointers

prone to be spiritually blind and deaf. Be gracious and

// Give thanks:

merciful to me, O God! Keep me and save me from my spiritual blindness and deafness through Your Word and Your Spirit. Your Word is

// Pray for leaders:

light and Your Spirit enlightens.

When I open the Scriptures, open Your Word to me, and open my eyes, my mind and

// Pray for significant people:

my heart to see Your light.

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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TUESDAY // 13 AUGUST 2019

How Do We Interpret Life?

S CRIPTURE Isaiah 42:18-25

O B S E RVAT I O N How do verses 22 and 24 show two different perspectives regarding a similar situation facing Israel?

DEEPER REFLECTION

W

e live life by interpreting life, consciously or unconsciously. Two words in pairs are used to describe Israel being afflicted by their enemies, but showing two different perspectives on the cause of their affliction: “plundered” and “spoil” (v.22), and “spoil” and “plunderers” (v.24). The cause in the former is shown to be Israel’s enemies (v.22) and the cause in the latter is shown to be God (v.24). Do we interpret life by looking at life externally (v.22) or theologically as reality (v.24)? God was asking Israel the same question. While Israel was “plundered and despoiled” by their oppressors and became their “spoil” (v.22), God asked Israel, “Who gave Jacob up for spoil, and Israel to plunderers? Was it not the LORD?” (v.24a). The affliction Israel suffered was in reality “the heat of His anger” (v.25a). Reason? Israel was “not willing to walk” in God’s “ways” and “did not obey” God’s “law” (v.24b). And Israel failed to interpret life theologically: They “did not recognise” and “paid no attention” to God who was behind their situation (v.25b). When we are “willing to walk” in God’s “ways” and “obey” God’s “law” (v.24b), we will be able to interpret life correctly: to see as God sees.

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A P P L I CAT I O N How important is it to me to interpret life theologically?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of

Prayer Pointers

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for pastors and staff: To be able to see as God sees // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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WEDNESDAY // 14 AUGUST 2019

It’s “Do Not Fear”Again!

S CRIPTURE Isaiah 43:1-2

O B S E RVAT I O N How did God address the fear of His people?

DEEPER REFLECTION

N

ot too long ago, God gave His people in exile a triple “Do not fear” assurance (Isa 41:10, 13, 14). And now, it’s “Do not fear” again! (v.1). This divine assurance is for His people who are going through “the waters” and “the fire” (v.2). “Waters” and “fire” are terms of “extreme hardship”18 and are “an idiom of totality: trials of whatever sort and however they come”19. Why “Do not fear”?

Firstly, because of our God-given identity, described in five terms of personal closeness (v.1). God our “Creator” has brought us into being.

God “formed” us: He fashions and moulds us into shape as a potter would. God has “redeemed” us, through the blood of His Son (Eph 1:7).

And in “crowning intimacy”20, God has “called” us “by name”, which is “a direct relationship involving having a specific plan and place for the one named”21. Each one of us is distinctively unique in God’s eyes and hand. All these climax with “You are Mine!” Secondly, because of the God-promised security, in terms of God’s presence, protection and preservation (v.2). Going through waters without drowning and fire without burning up does not mean it is painless. Imagine the Crucified Christ reflecting on this promise. The theological key is: “I will be with you” with His sovereign control over the “waters” and “fire”.

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I respond to the “waters” and “fire” that I am going through in my life?

P R AY E R Lord Jesus, when I am in the

Prayer Pointers

furnace of blazing fire, You are Lord of the furnace, the Living

// Give thanks:

One, who was dead, but is alive forevermore, the First and the Last.22 You are able to deliver me from this blazing

// Pray for leaders:

fire and You will deliver me.

But I acknowledge that, in Your love, wisdom and power, You may not deliver me.23

// Pray for significant people:

Even then, by Your grace, I still follow You.

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

18 J.

A. Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah, (IVP, 1993), 331 J. A. Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah, 331 A. Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah, 331 21 J. A. Motyer, The Prophecy of Isaiah, 331 22 Revelation 1:17-18 23 Daniel 3:17-18 19

20 J.

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THURSDAY // 15 AUGUST 2019

Righteous Sovereign Grace of God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 43:3-7

O B S E RVAT I O N How did God show that His people are special to Him?

DEEPER REFLECTION

W

hat does it mean that God will give other peoples and nations to His people in exile “as your ransom”, “in your place” and “in exchange for your life” (vv.3-4) in restoring them (vv.5-6)? “Ransom” in the Mosaic Law means a substitute price paid in exchange for a life (Exo 21:30; Num 35:31,32). When God’s people suffered the covenant curses from God for their covenant unfaithfulness, in terms of sinfulness, they were no different from pagan nations. But God is willing to bring His righteous judgments down on pagan peoples, and in His righteous sovereign grace to deal with His chosen people by not treating them as their sins deserved.24 In a sense, these peoples and nations are given up to judgment in place of God’s people.25 God acts in this manner because of what God is to us and what we are to God. Mark “your God” and “your Saviour” (v.3a). God remains our God and our Saviour even when we are at the lowest pit of our sin. Even in our unholiness as Israel, God is still “the Holy One of Israel” (v.3a) and says to us: “You are precious and honoured in My sight and I love you” (v.3b). It’s so unbelievable! But, this does not mean that we can take sin lightly. Instead, God’s name by which we are called and God’s glory for which we are created must be our utmost concern (v.7).

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A P P L I CAT I O N What does it mean for me to make God’s name by which I am called and God’s glory for which I am created my utmost concern?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for Outreach/Missions/ New Life leaders: To have passion for God’s name and God’s glory

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

24 Andrew 25 Allan

M. Davis, Exalting Jesus in Isaiah, Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary (Holman, 2017), 251 Harman, 336

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FRIDAY // 16 AUGUST 2019

“My Witness and My Servant” S CRIPTURE Isaiah 43:8-13

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God’s people being chosen by God to be His witnesses and servants?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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od has revealed Himself as the only true God: “I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me. I, even I, am the LORD, and there is no saviour besides Me…I am God. Even from eternity I am He, and there is none who can deliver out of My hand; I act and who can reverse it?” (vv.10b-13). And in this context, God describes His people as “My witnesses, and My servant whom I have chosen” (v.10a). But when we testify to the nations that our God is the only true God by declaring what God has said about Himself (as in vv.10b-13), our words can be hollow and empty. Why? God’s primary purpose in choosing us to be His witnesses and servants is: “so that you may know and believe Me and understand that I am He…” (vv.10-13). Our knowing, believing and understanding of God is essentially our personal relationship with God, built on the revelation of God, the Scriptures.

Without this, we are spiritually “blind” and “deaf” (v.8), and how can we then be God’s witnesses? Our relationship with God that manifests the reality of God is a visible witness, out of which we give our verbal witness. Jesus calls us to be “with Him”, from which He sends us out in mission (Mk 3:14).

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A P P L I CAT I O N How can I be the witness and servant that God has called me to be?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for SGI leaders: To live out the Gospel in everyday life

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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SATURDAY // 17 AUGUST 2019

Starting New with God Again S CRIPTURE Isaiah 43:14-21

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God calling Israel in exile not to recall the former things?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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od brought to His people in exile a twofold good news: the destruction of Babylon – when God “will send an army against Babylon, forcing the Babylonians to flee in those ships they are so proud of ” (vv.14-15, NLT) − and Israel’s departure from Babylon, which will be a new exodus (vv.19-21) patterned after the first exodus from Egypt (vv.16-17). However great may be our spiritual setbacks, like Israel in exile, God’s grace makes it possible for us to start anew with Him again. Don’t look back at the former things, as God said to Israel (v.18). The “former things”/“things of the past” refers to God’s harsh judgments on Judah announced repeatedly as the primary theme of Isaiah 1 to 39.26 Mark the divine double call: “Do not bring back to memory. Do not keep thinking about it” (v.18). But look up to God who says, “Behold, I will do something new” (v.19) and look ahead and move on. Look at how God looks at us. God’s destruction of Babylon was “for your sake” (v.14a), despite Israel having failed God greatly! And we are defined by God, who said, “I formed you for Myself ” (v.21a). How do we square “for your sake” with “for Myself ”?

God acts for our sake because He has formed us for Himself. It is a theocentric “for your sake”.

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A P P L I CAT I O N What areas in my life do I want to start anew with God and what will I do on my part?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for church board: To hope in the God of new restarts // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

26 Walter

Brueggemann, Isaiah 40-66, 58-59

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SUNDAY // 18 AUGUST 2019

Sunday Journal

S CRIPTURE

O B S E RVAT I O N

A P P L I CAT I O N

P R AY E R

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THE PAST WEEK Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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THE PAST WEEK Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? Commit in prayer.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

AUGUST 2019 WEEK 3

WHAT TRUTH MUST I FOLLOW? God’s Word shows the way to follow.

Scripture: 2 Kings 22 – 23:3 ACTIVITY BITE Get your family members to walk in an enclosed area with their eyes closed and try to recognise the different objects in that area through touch. After the activity, have them share their experiences.

CHAT TIME Q1: What is the similarity between not following God’s Word and walking around with our eyes closed?

Q2: What does it mean to follow God and His Word?

Q3: Just like King Josiah, how will you help others turn back to God and His Word?

LEARNING POINT Long ago, Moses wrote down God’s commandment or scriptures in the Book of the Law and gave them to the Israelites to follow.

But because of the Israelites’ disobedience, these Words of God were lost. The Israelites continued to do evil because God’s law was not there to guide them. When the Book of the Law was finally found, King Josiah ordered these scriptures to be read and that all Israelites obey what was written. He led the people’s hearts to turn back to God because His Word is truth and there is no other.

ACTION POINT Prepare a set of Bible verses. Then ask each of your family members to choose one of the verses which they believe can help them at different times of their lives. Get everyone to explain why they chose that particular verse.

FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Thank God for guiding our lives every day through His Word.

Pray for discipline and wisdom to follow the Word closely and wholeheartedly.

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MONDAY // 19 AUGUST 2019

Signs of Being Tired of God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 43:22-24

O B S E RVAT I O N What are the signs of having become tired of God?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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n this divine speech (vv.22-24), two repeated words, “weary” and “burden” are used to describe a negative state in our relationship with God: We have become tired of God (v.22b). The word “Yet” (v.22a), indicating contrast, shows that this was Israel’s response to God’s grace in offering them a new start with Him (Isa 43:14-21). An unbelievable response to God’s unbelievable grace! There are four signs of being tired of God. First, we no longer call on God (v.22a). Calling on God emphasises personal communion with God.27 Is spending personal time with God the most important time of your day? Are all that you do in personal communion with God? Second, we no longer worship Him – “you have not brought Me your sacrifices” (vv.23a, 24a). Theologically, worship is not just the Sunday worship service. It is a whole life dedicated to God as a living sacrifice pleasing to God (Rom 12:1). Third, we live lives that do not honour God nor satisfy God with the “fat” (the best) “of ” our “sacrifices” (vv.23a, 24a). Fourth, we consider God’s requirements wearisome and burdensome (v.23b). Following Jesus is deemed as unrealistic and impractical. The reality of being tired of God is that we have wearied and burdened God with our sins (v.24b).

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A P P L I CAT I O N What are the signs of being tired of God that I need to be alert to?

P R AY E R Forgive me, O God, for having

Prayer Pointers

wearied and burdened You with my sins. God, be merciful

// Give thanks:

to me, a sinner!28 Deliver me, O God of my salvation, from my being tired of You! I confess that I can do right in Your sight,

// Pray for leaders:

yet not with a whole heart.

29

Grant me a new start with You. Give me a heart that delights in You, thirsts for You and seeks

// Pray for significant people:

You wholeheartedly.

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

27 28 29

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 308 Luke 18:13 2 Chronicles 25:2

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TUESDAY // 20 AUGUST 2019

An Unbelievable Transition of Redemptive Grace!

S CRIPTURE Isaiah 43:22-28

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God in light of how verse 25 transitions from verses 22 to 24?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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hen we have become tired of God (vv.22-24a), the reality is that we have wearied and burdened God with our sins (v.24b). We may have wearied and burdened God with our sins, but does God become weary of us, that He gives us up and punishes us as our sins justly deserve? Observe the unbelievable transition from “Rather you have burdened Me with your sins, you have wearied Me with your iniquities” (v.24b) to “I, even, I, am the one who wipes out your transgressions for My sake, and I will not remember your sins” (v.25)!

There is no connecting word between verse 25 and verse 24b. “There is no logic whereby we might connect sin with forgiveness, nor does the Lord explain Himself. The logic whereby the offended God is the forgiving God is hidden in His heart”30, as shown in the emphatic “I, even, I am the one…” (v.25). It is as though God is saying to us, “You would not know what to do about this (vv.22-24), you have no remedy, but I am Myself all you need.”31 The ability to wipe sin’s stain clean is a divine attribute. And God “wipes out your transgressions for My own sake” (v.25a). Ponder on this: “your transgressions” and “for My own sake”. God “wipes out” our sins means “I will not remember your sins” (v.25b). See this God in the Crucified Christ!

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A P P L I CAT I O N What does it mean to me that God wipes out my transgressions for His own sake?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for pastors and staff: To live and serve in God’s redemptive grace

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

30 31

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 309 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 309

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WEDNESDAY // 21 AUGUST 2019

God Still Holds Us to Himself S CRIPTURE Isaiah 44:1-5

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God from what He said to Israel, who wearied and burdened Him with their sins (Isa 43:22-24)?

DEEPER REFLECTION

W

hat God says to His people (vv.1-5) who wearied and burdened Him with their sins (Isa 43:22-24, 26-28), and whose sins He “wipes out” (Isa 43:25), shows a God who still holds us to Himself despite our many and great transgressions − in three ways. First, God’s comforting reminder of what His people are to Him: “My servant whom I have chosen” (v.1), “the LORD who made you…formed you…My servant whom I have chosen” (v.2). God has said these things before (Isa 41:8-9; 43:1, 7, 10, 20, 21). As far as God is concerned, this has not changed, even when we feel otherwise in the lowest pit of our spiritual life. Second, God’s reassuring reassurance of “Do not fear. I will help you” (v.2), after having said this several times before (Isa 41:10, 13, 14; 43:1, 5). This shows how God understands and appreciates our fears, needs and weakness. Third, the Spiritual refreshment for our “thirsty land” and “dry ground”: “I will pour out water and streams…My Spirit…My blessing” (vv.3-4). But are we spiritually thirsty? Are we doing anything about our spiritual dryness?

Jesus invites us: “Come to Me and drink” (Jn 7:37). Drink from the Word of God. And we will be like a tree nourished by the “rivers of living water” – the Holy Spirit in our “innermost being” (Psa 1:2-3 with Jn 7:38-39).

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A P P L I CAT I O N How spiritually thirsty am I and what posture will I take for God to pour out His Spirit on me?

P R AY E R God, I quietly contemplate

Prayer Pointers

the kind of God that You are: “Oh, how can I give you up, Israel? How can I let you go?

// Give thanks:

My heart is torn within Me and My compassion overflows.

No, I will not unleash My fierce anger. I will not completely

// Pray for leaders:

destroy Israel, for I am God and not a mere mortal.”32 O what grace of God! Help me not to fall short of Your grace,

// Pray for significant people:

O God of all grace!

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

32

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THURSDAY // 22 AUGUST 2019

The God of Our Life History S CRIPTURE Isaiah 44:6-8

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God as the Lord of history?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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od is the Lord of history – history of the world and His people, corporately and individually. God is in charge and in control of our past history – “from the time that I established the ancient nation [Israel]”; and our future history – “the things that are coming and the events that are going to take place” (v.7); and certainly, also our present. This God self-declares that He alone is God with none like Him in five emphatic ways (vv.6b, 7a, 8b). This God is “the First” – He is self-existing, without deriving His being from any other; and “the Last” – He remains supreme at the end (v.6).33 God said, “I am the First and the Last” is in the beginning and the end of our life history. God “sets in order” – mastering all the details and getting everything in its right place34 – the past, present and future of our life history (v.7). This supreme God is also a personal God. He is our “King” (v.6), even when we are ruled by Babylonian and Persian kings. He is our “Redeemer” (v.6).

The fundamental idea in “Redeemer” is that of “the next-of-kin who has the right to come alongside his relative and take upon himself the debt, trouble or burden of the other, whatever it may be”35 (cf. Ru 4:1-5). Do you see and know this supreme and personal God in your life history?

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A P P L I CAT I O N Where and how do I see God as the Lord of my personal life history?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for Outreach/Missions/ New Life leaders: To see God as the Lord of their personal life history

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

33 34 35

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 312 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 312 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 306

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FRIDAY // 23 AUGUST 2019

A Theology of Man-Made Gods S CRIPTURE Isaiah 44:9-20

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about man-made gods and man who makes them in verses 9 to 10 and 17 to 20?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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his prophetic text is about man-made gods. Note the verbs “fashion” (vv.9, 10, 12) and “make” (vv.13, 15, 17), with man as the subject and gods as the object. Man is not the most supreme being in the universe, for the simple reason that many things can happen to man that are beyond his control, which can be summed up in one word: troubles. Man needs security against troubles and salvation from troubles. Man needs someone or something greater than him to give him security and salvation, an equivalent of “Deliver me, for you are my god” (v.17). Man makes his own gods – whether he believes in gods or not, in the form of money, education, science and technology – and anything that can “deliver me.” To man, these things are “precious” and of “profit” (v.9). This can also happen to God’s people.

Anything apart from God that we depend on to “deliver me” are our man-made gods – “my god”, not “my God”. This is idolatry. The danger in idolatry is that we “fail to see and know” it (v.9), and our hearts have become “deceived hearts”, that we cannot discern that we are holding a “lie” (v.20). The greatest danger is: Our inability to see the deception is a divine judgment (vv.18-19).

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A P P L I CAT I O N What are the man-made gods in my life that I need to discard?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for SGI leaders: To guard against idolatrous worldly wisdom and values // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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SATURDAY // 24 AUGUST 2019

In God’s Grace, to God’s Glory S CRIPTURE

Isaiah 44:21-23; 43:22-24

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God when you compare verses 21 to 23 with Isaiah 43:22-24?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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od is concluding here (vv.21-23) His Word to His people who wearied and burdened Him with their sins (Isa 43:22-24).

Are we also guilty of this? But God calls us to “Remember these things” (v.21). What are “these things”? Our need for redemption (Isa 43:22-24), God’s promise of forgiveness (Isa 43:25-28) and new life through His Spirit (Isa 44:1-5), and the certain fulfilment of His purposes and plans for us, since He is the only God (Isa 44:6-8), not a man-made god (Isa 44:9-20). “Remember these things”: We should always first ponder what God has spoken to us. Accompanying the human “remember” is the divine “remember”: “you will not be forgotten by Me” (v.21). Why? Because of God’s relationship with us: “You are My servant” as “I have formed you” according to His purposes and plans (Isa 44:7).

God has removed our sins: “I have wiped out your transgressions” (v.22), because He is a God “who wipes out your transgressions for My own sake” (Isa 43:25). Upon these is the call of grace: “Return to Me” (v.22). Why? “Because I have redeemed you” (v.22). It is not return to be redeemed, but redeemed and therefore return. And God’s purpose? That in us He reveals His glory!” (v.23). In all these, it is “The LORD has done it!” (v.23). Our part is just “remember” and “return”.

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I see God showing forth His glory in my life through the grace He gives me?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for church board: To live in God’s grace to God’s glory // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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SUNDAY // 25 AUGUST 2019

Sunday Journal

S CRIPTURE

O B S E RVAT I O N

A P P L I CAT I O N

P R AY E R

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THE PAST WEEK Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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THE PAST WEEK Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? Commit in prayer.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

AUGUST 2019 WEEK 4

HOW CAN GOD’S WORD PROTECT US? God’s Word protects us from lies.

Scripture: Matthew 4:1-11, 1 John 3:8 ACTIVITY BITE Find a video online that shows a bug getting trapped in a spider’s web. Get your family members to share their thoughts on how bugs can avoid getting trapped in the first place.

CHAT TIME Q1: Do you think Satan is like a spider?

Q2: How does the Bible describe Satan in 1 John 3:8? What does Satan want us to do?

Q3: What are some of the lies which Satan wants us to believe?

How do we know they are not true?

LEARNING POINT Satan is like the spider. If we are not attentive, we may become like the “bug” and get trapped by him. Satan traps us with his lies and stops us from being close to God. Satan is the enemy of God. He wants to destroy all of God’s creations and harm us. He will tell us lies to make us believe that God is not to be trusted. But God gives us His Word so that we will know how to separate lies from the truth.

God’s Word protects us from falling into Satan’s trap and keeps us walking in the truth at all times.

ACTION POINT Come up with an action plan together as a family to repel Satan’s lies, for example, reading the Bible every day, praying, memorising Bible verses or talking to a godly and trusted friend.

FAMILY PRAYER POINTS Pray for God’s protection against Satan and his lies. Pray for a heart that is filled with God’s love and His Word so that we will remain strong and firm when we face temptations in our lives.

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MONDAY // 26 AUGUST 2019

Living in Major Changes in Life S CRIPTURE Isaiah 44:24-28

O B S E RVAT I O N How did God want Israel to look at Cyrus, the Persian king, rising in power on the stage of history?

DEEPER REFLECTION

I

n Isaiah 44:24-45:8, God spoke to His people in exile concerning Cyrus the king of Persia (v.28; Isa 45:1). The news of Cyrus conquering Babylon and other nations brought anxiety and apprehension over the new geopolitical situation. At the human level, what will happen to God’s people depends on this Cyrus. When we go through major changes in our lives, God calls us to look at the Reality that is infinitely greater than these changes. Look at “I, the LORD, am the Maker of all things” who created the universe “by Myself … all alone” (v.24).

Don’t miss the triple emphasis of the Divine-Ego: “I, the LORD, am”, “by Myself ” and “all alone”. And we find our security in the Word and the will of this God. God will “confirm” and “fulfil” His Word (v.26a), as underscored by the twice repeated “It is I who says” followed by “I will [act]” (vv.26b-27). When we do not live by God’s Word, subtly, we may follow the human power and wisdom that claim to “make sense of life, the flow of history and the trends that lead from the present to the future”36, which God will cause to fail (v.25). It was God’s will for Cyrus to be the superpower who “will perform all My desire”, that includes His redemptive purpose for His people (v.28). This is true for the “Nebuchadnezzar”37 and “Cyrus” in every generation.

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A P P L I CAT I O N What changes do I need to make in my response and approach to major changes in my life?

P R AY E R O God, how the sudden and

Prayer Pointers

surprising major changes in life that I am going through

// Give thanks:

have disoriented me greatly!

I am prone to rely on human wisdom and power, because I want to get a quick fix to my

// Pray for leaders:

problems. Teach me and help me to walk by faith and not by sight, by having You, the only wise sovereign God, and Your

// Pray for significant people:

reliable Word, as my anchor and compass.

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

36 37

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 319 See Daniel 1:1-2

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TUESDAY // 27 AUGUST 2019

Looking at Geopolitics Theologically and Redemptively S CRIPTURE

Isaiah 44:28; 45:1-6

O B S E RVAT I O N How does God want us to look at geopolitics in the world today in light of the case of Cyrus?

DEEPER REFLECTION

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he unbroken success of Cyrus’ career from its early origin in the distant kingdom of Anshan to his replacing the Babylonian empire with his own Persian empire was a marvel to his contemporaries, such that he was seen as the “beloved of the gods”38.

But the reality is that behind this was God’s sovereign presiding, as clearly shown in the 10 divine actions on Cyrus (Isa 45:1-6). God put Cyrus on the stage of history (Isa 45:1 – “take hold of ”), fashioned the purpose for him to fulfil (Isa 45:1 − “to subdue nations…kings”), engineered his triumphs (Isa 45:1 – “open doors”), made his progress easy (Isa 45:2 – “make smooth…shatter…cut through”) and enriched him with earth’s “treasures” (Isa 45:3a). In all this greatness and glory of Cyrus is the special privilege of God’s people. It is “for the sake of Jacob My servant…My chosen one” (Isa 45:4). God’s people are always at the centre of God’s concern. From this perspective, God’s small and weak people are greater than the world’s most powerful. That’s how God works. Behind Cyrus is God’s salvation purpose: that Cyrus and the world may “know” “the LORD, the God of Israel” (Isa 45:3, 6).

Certainly, God “has put all the evidence before them” on the stage of history “to make such knowledge possible”39.

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I look at the geopolitical situation in the world today from a theological and redemptive perspective?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for pastors and staff: To look at geopolitics theologically and redemptively // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

38 39

J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 322 J. Alec Motyer, Isaiah, 322

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WEDNESDAY // 28 AUGUST 2019

Foundational Theology in Good and Evil S CRIPTURE Isaiah 45:1-8

O B S E RVAT I O N What is the significance of verses 7 to 8 in the context of God using Cyrus for His purposes (vv.1-8)?

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he foundational theology in the whole Cyrus enterprise (Isa 44:24-45:8) is: the God who has total control of the whole universe is solely, wholly and creatively at work (Isa 44:24; 45:7, 8).

Observe how the “sandwich” structure of verses 6c to 7 show that God is the source of and sovereign over all things.

I am the LORD and there is no other,

The One forming light and creating darkness,

The One causing well-being and creating calamity;

I am the LORD who does all these.

God “creating darkness” and “creating calamity” does not mean that God has a dark side. Instead, it means that nothing – light or darkness, wellbeing or calamity – happens outside of God’s control. It is as Paul puts it: “From Him and through Him and to Him are all things” (Rom 11:36).

But, ponder on God “creating darkness” and “calamity” in the Crucified Christ. And we need to grow to have the spiritual maturity in worship to accept from God both good and evil (Job 2:10). In creating light and darkness, well-being and calamity, God always acts in righteousness and salvation (v.8). Note the from-heaven-to-earth agriculture metaphor.

Heaven “pours down” the rain of “righteousness” to cause the earth to “spring up” “righteousness” and “salvation”. In good and evil, God acts from righteousness to righteousness for our salvation.

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I face and go through times of darkness and calamity in my life and in the world?

P R AY E R Though the fig tree does not

Prayer Pointers

bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields

// Give thanks:

produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,

// Pray for leaders:

yet I will trust and rejoice in You, O God my Saviour.

Sovereign Lord, be my strength, make my feet like the feet of a deer and enable me to tread on the heights.

// Pray for significant people:

40

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

40

Habakkuk 3:17-19

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THURSDAY // 29 AUGUST 2019

Who Are We to Question God? S CRIPTURE Isaiah 45:9-13

O B S E RVAT I O N How did God respond to Israel’s unhappiness with Him (vv.9-10) in using Cyrus, a pagan king, in their restoration from exile?

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od was working out His purpose for His people in exile: “My city” to be rebuilt and “My exiles” to be released from the Babylonian captivity (v.13). Surely, we are delighted to have our lives rebuilt and be released from whatever difficulty and adversity we are in. We like God’s purpose for our lives, but oftentimes, we dislike His process in fulfilling His purpose. That happened to Israel. God has promised that He will restore to Israel the Davidic kingdom (Isa 9:6-7; 11:1-5). Thus, Israel expected to return from exile to a sovereign state under a Davidic king like before. But now they were told by God that their exile will end through a pagan king, Cyrus, and that their city and temple will be rebuilt by his direction (v.13; Isa 44:28), without any reference to a Davidic restoration. There was dissatisfaction and dissonance with God, expressed in their quarrel with God and questioning of God (vv.9-10). But God pointed Israel to His prerogative as the potter who exercises unquestionable sovereignty and the parent who possesses a sole right. The Creator God who began everything also maintains everything in existence, controls and directs everything (v.12). Hence, if God decides to “raise up Cyrus to fulfil My righteous purpose” (v.13, NLT), that is the end of the discussion!

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A P P L I CAT I O N In what areas of my life do I need to trust God and submit to Him as the Potter?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for Outreach/Missions/ New Life leaders: To trust in God as the Potter of their lives

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

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FRIDAY // 30 AUGUST 2019

The Presence and Hiddenness of God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 45:14-17

O B S E RVAT I O N What can you learn about God in the two confessional statements in verses 14 and 15?

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his passage (vv.14-17) is not easy to interpret.41 Our reflection will be on two confessional statements: “Surely, God is with you” (v.14) and “Truly, You are a God who hides Himself ” (v.15).

The Presence of God: In God’s redemptive purpose, God’s people will be honoured by people who are greater in wealth, power and stature (v.14; echoing Isa 43:3-4). Perhaps, this is to be understood as “the last becoming the first”42 (cf. Matt 19:30). But most significantly, God manifests His presence with His people as the only true God (see biblical examples in Gen 21:22-23; 26:28; Exo 14:25; 1 Cor 14:24-25). But we cannot manufacture or make God to manifest His presence. Paradoxically, the presence of God is put in juxtaposition with the Hiddenness of God (v.15), which is intrinsic to God’s character. Hiddenness belongs to God’s “unfettered freedom and refusal to be contained or even known by conventional categories”43, who is not like man-made idols that are visible, tangible, domesticable, completely available and exhaustible. It is in His hiddenness that God is our “Saviour” who “saved” us with “everlasting salvation” (vv.15, 17). This salvation is accomplished by God’s wisdom and power hidden in the weakness, vulnerability and foolishness of the cross (1 Cor 1:21-24).

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I relate with God in His hiddenness?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for SGI leaders: To know and live by the hiddenness of God

// Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

41 42 43

Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 268-269 Walter Brueggemann, Isaiah 40-66, 81 Walter Brueggemann, Isaiah 40-66, 82

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SATURDAY // 31 AUGUST 2019

The Confrontation of the Righteous God S CRIPTURE Isaiah 45:18-25

O B S E RVAT I O N What observations can you make about God and righteousness?

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tanding out in this passage is the God of righteousness: “I, the LORD, speak righteousness” (v.19), “a righteous God” (v.21), “the word has gone forth from My mouth in righteousness” (v.23) and “Only in the LORD are righteousness and strength” (v.24). The righteous God expects us to live a righteous life. Do we have a choice? No, as it is shown in the confrontation of this righteous God. It begins with God has spoken His Word clearly (v.19): “I have not spoken in secret”, and thus, we will not “seek” God “in vain” but will find Him. And God “speaks righteousness”, so that we may know His righteousness and live in righteousness. Because God has spoken His Word clearly, there is the choice that we must make: “Turn to Me that” we “may be saved”, which applies to “all the ends of the earth” (v.22). In Isaiah, “salvation” and “righteousness” are parallel theological ideas (e.g. Isa 45:8; 46:12-13; 51:5, 6, 8). The “righteous God” and “Saviour” “saved” us to righteousness (vv.21-22).

We must make the choice because of the reality that we cannot escape: “To Me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear allegiance” (v.23).

When we “come to Him” (v.24) and are “saved” (v.22), “in the LORD” we “will be justified” – we “will be righteous, made righteous and declared righteous”44 (v.25).

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A P P L I CAT I O N How do I relate with the God of righteousness?

P R AY E R Write a prayer to God as your

Prayer Pointers

response from your meditation on and application of

// Give thanks:

the Scriptures.

// Pray for church board: To know God’s righteousness and live righteously // Pray for significant people:

// Pray for those in need:

// Pray for self:

44

Gary V. Smith, Isaiah 40-66, 280

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NOTES

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NOTES

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NOTES

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© 2019 COVENANT EVANGELICAL FREE CHURCH T (65) 6892 6811 • E mail@cefc.org.sg • W www.cefc.org.sg

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