Behold Your God (Isaiah 35:1–4)
Digest
This episode of Pray the Word with David Platt focuses on Isaiah 35:1-4, which describes the transformation of barren land into a place of joy and singing upon seeing the glory of the Lord. Platt applies this imagery to the lives of believers, encouraging them to find strength and joy in God's presence even when they feel weak, anxious, or fearful. He emphasizes that God is for us, with us, and will come to us today to provide, protect, lead, and guide us. He also highlights the promise of everlasting joy and the removal of sorrow and sighing in the future. Platt concludes by praying for listeners to behold God's glory, to be strong in Him, and to encourage others with these truths, specifically praying for the Momprusi people of Ghana to be reached with the good news of Jesus.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the resource, Pray the Word with David Platt, and the passage from Isaiah 35:1-4 that will be discussed.
Isaiah 35:1-4: A Picture of Transformation
This Chapter explores the imagery of Isaiah 35:1-4, describing the transformation of barren land into a place of joy and singing upon seeing the glory of the Lord. It highlights the power of God's glory to bring joy even to the most desolate places.
God's Strength and Comfort for the Weak and Anxious
This Chapter applies the message of Isaiah 35:3-4 to the lives of believers, encouraging them to find strength and joy in God's presence even when they feel weak, anxious, or fearful. It emphasizes that God is for us, with us, and will come to us today to provide, protect, lead, and guide us.
Prayer for Strength, Joy, and Hope
This Chapter concludes with a prayer based on the verses from Isaiah 35, asking God to help listeners behold His glory, to be strong in Him, and to encourage others with these truths. It specifically prays for the Momprusi people of Ghana to be reached with the good news of Jesus.
Keywords
Isaiah 35
The 35th chapter of the Book of Isaiah in the Hebrew Bible, which describes the transformation of barren land into a place of joy and singing upon seeing the glory of the Lord. It is often used to symbolize the restoration of God's people and the coming of the Messiah.
David Platt
An American evangelical pastor, author, and speaker known for his emphasis on biblical faithfulness and missions. He is the founder of Radical.net, a ministry dedicated to mobilizing Christians for global missions.
Pray the Word
A resource from Radical.net that encourages listeners to engage with Scripture through prayer and reflection. It features various speakers, including David Platt, who guide listeners through specific passages of the Bible.
Momprusi people
An ethnic group in Ghana, primarily located in the Upper West Region. They are known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional beliefs. The Momprusi people are one of the many groups in Ghana that have been targeted for Christian mission work.
Glory of the Lord
A phrase used in the Bible to describe the manifestation of God's power, presence, and majesty. It is often associated with light, beauty, and awe-inspiring wonder.
Strength
The ability to withstand pressure, stress, or difficulty. In a spiritual context, strength often refers to the power that comes from God and enables believers to overcome challenges.
Joy
A feeling of great happiness and contentment. In a spiritual context, joy is often described as a deep and abiding peace that comes from knowing God and experiencing His love.
Anxious heart
A state of worry, fear, or unease. It can be caused by various factors, including stress, uncertainty, and difficult circumstances.
Vengeance
The act of inflicting punishment or harm in retaliation for a wrong or injury. In a biblical context, vengeance is often associated with God's justice and judgment.
Recompense
Something given or received as payment or compensation for something else. In a biblical context, recompense can refer to the reward or punishment that God gives to individuals based on their actions.
Q&A
What is the main message of Isaiah 35:1-4?
Isaiah 35:1-4 describes the transformation of barren land into a place of joy and singing upon seeing the glory of the Lord. It highlights the power of God's glory to bring joy even to the most desolate places.
How does David Platt apply the message of Isaiah 35 to the lives of believers?
Platt encourages believers to find strength and joy in God's presence even when they feel weak, anxious, or fearful. He emphasizes that God is for us, with us, and will come to us today to provide, protect, lead, and guide us.
What are some of the promises found in Isaiah 35?
Isaiah 35 promises that God will come with vengeance and save those who are weak, anxious, and fearful. It also promises everlasting joy and the removal of sorrow and sighing in the future.
How can we find strength and joy in God when we feel weak and anxious?
Platt encourages listeners to behold God's glory, to be strong in Him, and to trust that He will come to us today in every way we need. He reminds us that God provides for us not just today, but tomorrow and every morning new mercies will flow from His hand into our hearts.
What is the significance of the prayer for the Momprusi people of Ghana?
The prayer for the Momprusi people of Ghana highlights the importance of reaching out to those who have not yet heard the good news of Jesus. It emphasizes the hope and freedom from fear that come through knowing God and seeing His glory in the face of Jesus.
Show Notes
In this episode of Pray the Word on Isaiah 35:1–4, David Platt reflects on how meditating on God's glory makes us strong and fearless in this world.
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