Context: The Prophetic Voice of Isaiah
The book of Isaiah gives reason and direction for contemplating why The Word matters. Isaiah prophesied during a time of great turmoil, offering hope and guidance in a society marred by disobedience. His messages resonate with the trials believers face today. The narrative of King Manasseh serves as a powerful case study in disobedience, illustrating humankind's errant path yet showcasing God's redemptive grace.
King Manasseh, the son of King Hezekiah, ruled during one of the most chaotic periods in Judean history. Despite being one of the most wicked kings, he was afforded the opportunity of redemption, demonstrating that no one is beyond God's grace. This brings us to an important truth: that we, too, can be redeemed and restored.
The Lesson of President Garfield: Ignorance and Leadership
The story of President James A. Garfield, who survived an assassination attempt, provides an interesting parallel to Isaiah's messages of wisdom and truth. Garfield, who reportedly did not aspire to the presidency, took the time to meet with every person who came to him. His humility and willingness to engage with others starkly contrasted the ignorance that often pervades leadership.
The phrase "Ignorance is Bliss" comes to mind here, especially in light of Dr. Joseph Lister and Dr. Charles Bliss, who served during this era. While Garfield's assassination attempt reached everyone, it served as a lesson on the multifaceted nature of ignorance. Garfield’s tragic experience illuminated the profound reality of choices; wisdom and ignorance impact our lives profoundly.
The Nature of Truth as Presented in Scripture
According to John's Gospel, the Word, or Logos, exists eternally, and Jesus proclaims Himself as "The Way, The Truth, and The Life" (John 14:6). Within this framework, we find that:
1. The Word is Living: It speaks to the present and continues to guide believers through ages of change.
2. The Word is Active: There is an inherent dynamism in God's Word, influencing hearts and minds.
3. The Word is Sharper: Hebrews 4:12 tells us it can penetrate beyond mere thoughts to touch the soul and spirit, distinguishing motives and intentions.
Isaiah's prophetic voice serves as a timeless testament to Truth. He remained unwavering in his faith, loyalty, and dedication to God amidst opposition, illustrating the vital relationship between truth and grace. As an instructive figure, Isaiah exemplified what it means to bear witness to the Truth amid trials.
Who else has held the oceans in his hand?
Who has measured off the heavens with his fingers?
Who else knows the weight of the earth
or has weighed the mountains and hills on a scale?
Who is able to advise the Spirit of the LORD?
Who knows enough to give him advice or teach him?
Has the LORD ever needed anyone’s advice?
Does he need instruction about what is good?
Did someone teach him what is right
or show him the path of justice?
Isaiah 40:12-14….
The Story of Manasseh: A Study of Disobedience and Redemption
Christians today can relate profoundly to the narrative of Manasseh, the king who epitomized rebellion against God. He led the people of Judah into idolatry and disobedience. It is believed that he executed Isaiah, yet even this man, steeped in wickedness, found grace in repentance as recorded in 2 Chronicles 33:12-20.
Manasseh's story underscores that God’s mercy transcends our sinfulness. He may be the most wicked king, but God listened to his cries for mercy and forgiveness, reminding us all of the profound truth that redemption is available through sincere repentance. This illustrates an essential lesson in understanding the weight of sin alongside the breadth of God's grace.
Truth and its Importance
Why does truth matter in our lives? We navigate through a highly challenging period—a time filled with moral ambiguity and declining values. The battle for truth serves as a battle for the soul of our nation and a challenge for families striving to uphold values.
As believers, we are tested in various work and life scenarios. I love what Missy Buchanan writes:
One of the greatest gifts of aging is the accumulation of life lessons. You have gained insight from the school of hard knocks. Now is the time to apply those lessons. Think about what you have learned over the years that that will show you how to navigate the future. (Missy Buchanan)
Yet, in these trials, the Word remains a steadfast anchor. Proverbs 24:16 tells us, “Though the righteous fall seven times, they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked.”.
We need to remember that:
- The Word of God is living and active.
- It has the power to separate between soul and spirit, judging the heart and its motivations.
Truth matters because it defines our reality, sets a moral compass, and guides our interactions.
Haven’t you heard? Don’t you understand?
Are you deaf to the words of God—
the words he gave before the world began?
Are you so ignorant?
God sits above the circle of the earth.
The people below seem like grasshoppers to him!
He spreads out the heavens like a curtain
and makes his tent from them.
Isaiah 40:21-23
The Fabric of Truth
1. God is Truth: In an era of competing narratives, God stands as the ultimate reference for what is genuine, unchanging, and steadfast.
2. Grace and Mercy: God's readiness to forgive those who genuinely seek Him underscores His character as merciful and loving.
3. Constancy of God: The same God who was present in biblical times is here today—unchanged and unflinching.
4. Reality is Defined by Truth: When we uphold God's word and live by His principles, we define reality through a lens centered on divine grace.
As Joshua states (entering the promised land)- “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
As the prophet states: “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.”
2 Samuel 22:31
As David writes- “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet.” Psalm 119:105 (near the center of the Bible)
As Solomon writes- “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.”
Proverbs 30:5
As Jesus said- “I am the Way, Truth, Life - no one comes to the father except through me.” John 14:6
As the prophet states: “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.”
2 Samuel 22:31
As David writes- “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet.” Psalm 119:105 (near the center of the Bible)
As Solomon writes- “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.”
Proverbs 30:5
As Jesus said- “I am the Way, Truth, Life - no one comes to the father except through me.” John 14:6
With these principles in mind, we revisit the story of Manasseh, emphasizing how he faced judgment yet received forgiveness.
Our Call to Action
As believers, we are called to respond:
- Pursue the Way of God.
- Uphold His Truth.
- Embrace life that follows His principles.
To reignite our spiritual fervor, we must:
1. Reach Out to God for His Mercy: Acknowledge our shortcomings and earnestly seek His forgiveness.
2. Repent from Sin: Cast aside deeds that stray from God's truth and actively turn toward Him.
3. Re-examine Our Love for God: Reflect on our relationship with Him and strive to deepen that connection.
4. Restore Broken Relationships: Seek reconciliation with those we may have wronged, embodying the grace we have received.
5. Rebuild Hope for Mankind: As retailers of God’s Word, become vessels of hope and truth to those around us.
6. Renew Our Passion for God: Seek God daily, engaging fervently with the Word and prayer, fostering a deeper relationship with Him.
In doing so, we help usher in a revival marked by a return to truth and grace.
But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength.
They will soar high on wings like eagles.
They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31
Conclusion: The Power of the Word
As we close this exploration, let us remember our place in history. Just as God forgave King Manasseh and called him back into a relationship with Him, He offers us the same grace today. We must prioritize The Word in our lives—seeking truth, wisdom, and grace.
In heartfelt prayer, we thank our Heavenly Father for equipping us with His Word, illuminating our lives by His wisdom. As we grow in knowledge and understanding, may we pursue His way and allow His grace to fill our hearts.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
