September 20

Isaiah 33:13-36:22; Galatians 5:13-26; Psalm 64:1-10; Proverbs 23:23

One of the qualities I love so much about Scripture is its consistency (Mom mentioned this characteristic earlier this week, too).  The same themes run throughout the Old and New Testaments; images are repeated; even words and phrases are used over and over.  Today's reading gives us several examples of this consistency.  Let's look at them:

Isaiah 33:15-16 reminds me of portions of Psalm 15, where the way of the righteous man is characterized by (among other things) a blameless walk, upright speech and aboveboard financial dealings.

Isaiah 35:5-10 develops the theme of reversals that we've seen before, like in Hannah's song in 1 Samuel 2 or in Mary's Magnificat in Luke 1.  God takes that which is not and turns it into that which is.  Barren women give birth; deserts are filled with water; the blind and lame and deaf see and walk and hear.  God overturns the status quo, bringing life and health and wholeness and flourishing.

Galatians 5:14 is a direct quote, directing us back to Jesus and his conversation in the gospels (see Mt. 22 and Mk. 12).  In responding to the questions of the teachers of the Law, Jesus says that the second great commandment is "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Mk. 12:31) - but Jesus himself is quoting from Leviticus 19:18.  Paul, quoting Jesus, quoting the Old Testament.  Talk about a repeated idea; clearly, this is an important concept!

Galatians 5:22-23 (the fruit of the Spirit) is offered in contrast to vs. 19-21 (the acts of the sinful nature).  Another example of "not this, but this."

Psalm 64:7-10 are the antithesis of vs. 3-6.  The plans of the wicked are upset and overturned; their own weapons of destruction are used against them.  Yet another example of the theme of reversals.

Even the idea of "get wisdom" (Pr. 23:23) has been seen before.  Look at Proverbs 4:5 and 7, which urge us to acquire understanding, wisdom, knowledge as a foundation for good living.

God recognizes how much we need to hear and see the same truths over and over again.  We are prone to forget, prone to think we've learned this lesson.  God's goodness and love for us know better; he gently reiterates these important concepts through the steady consistency of his word.  How good of him!

- Sarah Marsh

How did God speak to you in Scripture today? Click here to share your reflections on God's word or read past posts. We'd love to hear from you.