Day 153 - Isaiah 5-8, Proverbs 3

Isaiah 5 starts with a song. The lyrics describe a vineyard (Isreal) that was planted purposefully in expectation of a harvest of good fruit. Instead, it produced only violence and injustice. The chapter continues with a list of woes, calling out greed, drunkenness, arrogance, injustice, and moral confusion.

In Isaiah 6, Isaiah sees the Lord seated on His throne. Overwhelmed, Isaiah confesses his sin and is cleansed. With newfound energy he begs to be sent! “Here I am! Send me!” Offering ourselves to God in service of His plan is not always an easy step to take, but when we feel the call, no one can stop us.

In Isaiah 7, King Ahaz faces a crisis. Syria and Israel are threatening Jerusalem. Isaiah tells him to trust God, not political alliances but Ahaz refuses.

In Isaiah 8, Isaiah names his son Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz foreshadowing that Assyria is coming soon. The people fear everything except God. Isaiah reminds them God will be either a sanctuary or a stumbling stone, depending on how they respond. The choice is theirs.

Proverbs 3 is a poem written in a fatherly voice expressing advice to a son. It focuses on life lessons grounded in trust, humility, and obedience to God. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. (v.5-6)