July 25, 2020: SOAP #3887:  Isaiah 43-45; 1Peter 4

Scripture:  Isaiah (NIV) 45:18 For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited: I am the LORD; and there is none else. 19 I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain: I the LORD speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.

Observation:  Everyone who lives on the earth, needs to pay attention to what God is saying in these verses.  He was speaking through the prophet Isaiah.  God revealed truth about His work.  GOD CREATS WITH PURPOSE!!!  God did not create this earth just to have a beautiful blue planet to set among the other planets of this solar system.  He created the earth for purpose!   He created it to be inhabited!  He created it to be a place for his highest creation—MAN!  It was perfectly designed to meet the needs of the man to be placed here. 

The earth is a preparation place to get man ready to rule and reign with God throughout eternity.  When we repent and receive the forgiveness Christ purchased on the cross, His spirit enters us and begins preparing us for our heavenly life in eternity. 

Application:  Dear friend, as God formed the earth to be inhabited; He also formed you and me to be inhabited—by the Spirit of God!  You are valuable to God.  He has a place of honor for you in eternity.  It does not depend on your position here on earth.  Your faithfulness in loving and obeying Him is what He uses to prepare you for heaven!   

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, encourage my friend to keep their eyes on you.  As they confess their sin to you, flood their heart with joy than cannot come from their circumstances.  May your presence be a great encouragement to them.  Speak to them.  In the Almighty Name of Jesus, I pray, Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!