Read: Isaiah 30:19-22
This is the way, walk in it. (v. 21)
I love to walk outdoors and pray. Being in creation restores my soul. But I also walk to burn calories—I want to enjoy my husband’s delicious baked goods! Each year many people resolve to improve their physical health by vowing to eat better or exercise more. But this year, I invite you to think about your spiritual health. What would it mean for you to resolve to follow the Lord’s way and walk in it?
In our reading today, the prophet Isaiah spoke against Israel who as a nation had disobeyed God. Isaiah said they were “rebellious people, lying children, children unwilling to hear the instruction of the LORD” (v. 9). But there is good news. God waits to be gracious to his people (v. 18). He will answer them when they cry; and he will be their teacher (vv. 19-20). He says, “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left” (v. 21). He will do the same for us.
Psalm 23 is a classic psalm, rich with illustrations. It speaks about God our Shepherd who offers us instructions about walking with him. In this series, we will read the familiar verses of Psalm 23 alongside other passages that reflect this theme. Each day, we will learn better how to walk with our Shepherd. Whatever you are facing this new year, our Good Shepherd will show you the way. Let’s put on our walking shoes!
As you pray, commit to walking with God.
About the Author
Nancy Boote, an ordained minister in the Reformed Church of America, lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband. Besides being a mother, a grandmother, a song writer, and lover of horses, Nancy also has a heart for prayer and seeing racism dismantled.
