Text: Isaiah 9:1-3
Memory verse: “Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed…” (Isaiah 9:1).
The regions to the north of Israel mentioned had been laid waste by the Assyrian king as he launched his attack. What a confusing message this must have been to the people at the time, for what light could shine in such a place of devastation? But the scripture says, “Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future, he will honor Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan” (Isaiah 9:1NIV).
A widow in poor health was eager to serve Christ. She prayed and the Lord spoke to her through Isaiah 9:1. She decided to bless others by using her skills as a pianist. She placed a small advertisement with her phone contact in the newspaper, stating, “Pianist will play hymns, by telephone, for those who are sick and cannot go out. There will be no more gloom for those who are in distress. The service is free.”
Her services brought cheer to several people as they poured their hearts to her and she helped and encouraged them. The Lord’s words to the people are words of comfort for the obedient in the midst of pressure (Isaiah 9:1-3).
Our hope centers on the Messiah. No more gloom, if you belong to Jesus; just believe. In the presence of God, there is fullness of joy.
Prayer Points:
1. O Lord, wipe away every tear from my eyes.
2. Lord Jesus, help me identify Your path and rest in Your finished work.