Freedom through Obedience, Peace through freedom

Isaiah 48:17-19…..

17 This is what the Lord says—your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go. 18 If you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your well-being like the waves of the sea. 19 Your descendants would have been like the sand, your children like numberless grains; their name would never be blotted out nor destroyed from before me.”

The Babylonian exile was a pivotal period in the history of ancient Israel. In 586 BCE, after the capture and destruction of Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar II, the Israelites were forced into exile in Babylon. This exile lasted for about 70 years and had a profound impact on the nation's religious, cultural, and political identity. During this time of displacement, the Israelites faced challenges in maintaining their faith and retaining their distinctiveness. However, it was also during this period that the prophets, like Isaiah, emerged as powerful voices, providing hope, calling for repentance, and offering reassurance of God's faithfulness. Through their trials and tribulations, the Israelites learned the importance of faith, resilience, and dependence on God, ultimately leading to their eventual return to the Promised Land. The Babylonian exile serves as a significant reminder of the consequences of disobedience, the mercy of God, and the restoration of His people.

Prayerful Thought: The Hebrew word for wind is ”Ruach” and also means “spirit”.  In other words, the Holy Spirit can also be thought of as a Holy Wind. It blows with the Holy and against the Unholy. Today be obedient to God’s commands and you will receive peace when you walk with the Holy Spirit!