Isaiah 14:12-15, "How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations! You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.' But you are brought down to the realm of the dead, to the depths of the pit."

Think

Today's scripture is known as "a taunt for Babylon's king." Biblical history tells us that Israel's nation had been divided and conquered, and the Babylonian king was now in charge of God's people. At first glance, we might ask, how could God allow His chosen people to be taken captive? But, it wasn't as if they hadn't been warned. Isaiah was just one of several prophets God sent to urge the Israelites to turn from their sins of idol worship, social injustice, and religious ritualism. But they continually ignored every warning sign and were exiled to a foreign place under the conquering ruler.

Was God cruel and unjust? No! The bottom line: God is a God of grace, love, and peace, but He's also a God who says, "Enough is enough! Now, it's time to face the consequences of your disobedience." But even then, His ultimate desire was for them to turn back to Him.

Very similarly, far too many of us overlook God's power and authority in our lives. We often allow the distractions of jobs and status to become our priority. We say we love God, but we still gossip about our neighbor. We play the role of a churchgoer but then do as we choose during the week without regard for God's will. We'll eventually face the consequences like the Israelites. However, when we do finally heed God's power and authority in our lives, we'll be pursued by His amazing grace.

It's our choice: Will our lives be a futile battle for control or will we welcome the One who's reigned sovereign all along?

Act

Putting things in proper perspective makes life easier. Making sure God is our utmost priority is the first step. Begin each day as you are doing right now - by allowing God's message to fill you. Soon you will discover that your heart will be flooded with an overflow of God's love for life, others, and Him.

Pray

Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your patience. I want to show Your love and compassion to others. Help me to bring honor to Your name. Amen.