This lengthy chapter describes God’s rebellious people, their unsanctioned (sinful) actions, and God’s graciousness to those who remain faithful and/or return to Him.
“…you shall weep no more. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry… And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, yet your Teacher will not hide himself anymore… And 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. Then you will defile your carved idols… You will scatter them as unclean things. You will say to them, ‘Be gone!’ ” (v19-22 abr)
When we remain faithful and/or repent and return to God, the Holy One of Israel, He promises to be gracious to us. Though He allows us to suffer as a result of our sin, He will give us a Teacher (Jesus [physically] and the Holy Spirit [spiritually]) to guide our every step, keeping us from straying too far from His path. When we’re right with God, and following Him, we will naturally and joyfully rid our lives of anything that takes precedence over God.
Let’s not be foolish as many of God’s people were – they disregarded God’s guidance and words, went their own way, sought their own provision and protection, and did not consult God before doing so. I strongly encourage us to spend time in prayer and scripture every single day (in the mornings if possible) so we are more likely to follow our Teacher throughout the day. The more time we spend with God, the more easily we will hear His voice, and the more readily we will obey Him.
Father God, our Gracious Lord and Forgiving Savior, we praise Your holy and awesome name. You have granted us much mercy, and have forgiven our overwhelming sin, cleansing us of unrighteousness and guiding us on Your righteous path. Please continue to guard our hearts, minds, and bodies, teaching us Your ways, and helping us remain faithful (and repent / return quickly when we stray). We desire to honor, glorify, praise, and obey You, with every breath in our lungs, from this day forward. In Jesus our Redeemer’s name we serve You, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training