Tested in the Furnace of Affliction [Isaiah 48]

October 25, 2010

10"Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver;
         I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.
    11"For My own sake, for My own sake, I will act;
         For how can My name be profaned?
         And My glory I will not give to another.

    12"Listen to Me, O Jacob, even Israel whom I called;
         I am He, I am the first, I am also the last.
    13"Surely My hand founded the earth,
         And My right hand spread out the heavens;
         When I call to them, they stand together.
    14"Assemble, all of you, and listen!
         Who among them has declared these things?
         The LORD loves him; he will carry out His good pleasure on Babylon,
         And His arm will be against the Chaldeans.

As I ponder these words this morning I am struck with how consistent God is.  His character cannot allow the correct estimation of who He is (glory) to be given to another.  He is God.  He is the first and He is also the last.

We praise You LORD because surely Your hand founded the earth.  Your right hand spread out the heavens and when you call to them, they stand together.  May we assemble and listen.  May we know Your love and compassion today in the midst of our affliction.  (Is. 49:13). Thank You that You will carry out Your good pleasure in our lives today. 

Verna McCrillis, 10/25/2010