Recently, I found myself wondering when this series on the second half of Isaiah began. Then I saw in my journal that I started work on it on 25th September 2023. When I embarked on this, I had no idea it would last the better part of thirteen months. But my aim is, in the main, to work slowly through Bible passages, and when something hits me to write about it. These are not in depth Bible Studies. That much must be obvious. But the Bible should be taken seriously. So, if that means slowing down to savour words and phrases in texts, so we can give them time and attention, then that’s the pace I wish to adopt. If it’s not for you, I understand. There are all kinds of devotional aids available now, and I’m sure you can find an approach that best suits your personality. Thank you for sticking with me as long as you have. I appreciate you.

Having come to the end of these devotionals on Isaiah, I am going to take a break, before we begin a new series on 2 Corinthians, starting next Monday, God-willing (4th Nov). Please use this time to think over some of the big truths you have seen in Isaiah’s majestic prophetic book. Perhaps take out your journal (or a notebook) and pen/pencil, and jot them down? What has Isaiah taught me? You might also want to start to read 2 Corinthians, praying that God will enlighten us as we read. I would also very much appreciate your prayers that I will be led by the Holy Spirit in everything I write, kept from error, and that these notes will glorify God, edify His people, and be a means of extending His Kingdom. Also, that they will reach the hearts and minds of everyone the Lord wants to read them, be they few or many. I began to write these daily notes, probably over a decade ago now, because I felt ‘prompted’ to do so. Therefore I believe God has a purpose for them.

The notes on Isaiah 40-66 are not the last word on this majestic Biblical ‘mountain range.’ We all know that. Many others have explored these ‘peaks’ in greater detail. There are parts of the terrain I have not covered at all. I am aware that there are depths of truth that lie beyond my current comprehension and ability to convey. I have often ‘cast’ my ‘bread upon the waters’, wondering what it will do (Ecc.11;1). But in accordance with that verse, I have to believe that there will be a return, even though its appearance may be ‘after many days.’

A friend told a story about a minister he had heard about. This man had a successful ministry, and he was once asked about the secret of his success. He replied and said, ‘I don’t really know. All I can say is, I am a serious reader of the Bible.

May that be true of you, of me…and of everyone who comes across these notes.

”This is what the Lord says:

‘Heaven is my throne,
    and the earth is my footstool.
Where is the house you will build for me?
    Where will my resting-place be?
2 Has not my hand made all these things,
    and so they came into being?’
declares the Lord.

‘‘These are the ones I look on with favour:
    those who are humble and contrite in spirit,
    and who tremble at my word.” (Isaiah 66:1,2)