The Daily Word of Righteousness

Isaiah, Chapter Fifty-four, #8

O afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted, I will build you with stones of turquoise, your foundations with sapphires. I will make your battlements of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones. (Isaiah 54:11,12)

The new Jerusalem.

The city that is built with stones of turquoise and the foundations with sapphires is, of course, the new Jerusalem, the glorified Christian Church. We understand, therefore, that the saints who compose the new Jerusalem have been lashed by storms and not comforted.

It is interesting to me that the new Jerusalem is born from saints who have experienced barrenness. The man-driven Christian churches abound with members and new buildings. But the eternal city is not produced by the modern evangelistic programs, although God may use such programs to acquaint His elect with the Gospel.

The new Jerusalem comes forth as faithful believers submit themselves to the dealings of God, not understanding too well what is happening to them. They remain faithful to Jesus to the end of their lives. It is on these obedient servants that Jesus Christ builds His Church.

The turquoise, the sapphires, the rubies, the sparkling jewels and precious stones, are the traits of character developed in the saints as these believers are subjected to various fires and pressures. The great gates of pearl, the entrances to the Presence of God and the Lamb, are formed through years of irritations and frustrations.

Peace for the children.

All your sons will be taught by the LORD, and great will be your children's peace. (Isaiah 54:13)

I imagine many Christian parents have been comforted by the above verse, as they have interceded with God concerning their children and grandchildren. I know Audrey and I have. And we should be comforted! God is faithful to hear and answer prayer for our children and young people.

To be continued.