Freedom and Safety

We’re going to spend some time in Isaiah. Let’s begin by learning from the meaning of this prophet’s name. Isaiah 1:1 says,

“The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz,

which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem

in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah,

kings of Judah.”

Isaiah’s ministry in Judah began around 740 BC near the end of Uzziah’s reign, and it continued to Hezekiah’s around 680 BC. Isaiah’s name means Jehovah has saved. It comes from two Hebrew words:

Yâshaʻ meaning to be open, wide or free, to be safe, to free, rescue, deliver, preserve, bring salvation, get victory

and

Yâhh which is a contraction for Yᵉhôvâh, the sacred name of God.

True freedom and safety only come from God. This book is Holy Spirit breathed, and God had it recorded for our good. Israel had wandered and was therefore in danger. It’s what nations do when they move from God’s ways to follow their own wisdom and desires. Our individual hearts are prone to wander. But the God of love who is full of grace and mercy tells us what we need to hear and obey. He wants us in the safety of right relationship with Him, not man-made religion that conforms God into the image of our choosing. If we want freedom, spiritual safety, and joy, Acts 4:12 says,

“And there is salvation in no one else;
for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men
by which we must be saved.”

Jesus! I look so forward to the day that the government is on His shoulders, and all nations are under His righteous rule. Until that Day, there is much Kingdom work to be done. Lord, lead us!