December 23

Gladness And Thanksgiving

And in that day it will be said, “Surely this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He has saved us. This is the LORD for whom we have waited. Let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation.” — Isa 25:9 BSB

This song of praise was written by Isaiah to be sung when the proud city of Babylon, which had long oppressed the Hebrew people, would be overthrown. The prophet was so certain of Babylon's eventual destruction, and the world’s liberation from its tyranny, that he composed this song of thanksgiving in advance. Just as the scorching heat of the sun is lessened by the shadow of a cloud, so the pride and arrogance of the oppressors would be brought low.

The full meaning of this song will be realized in Heaven when we sit down at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Isaiah 25:6-8). Then, all the Babylons that have threatened humanity will have fallen. The veil of unbelief and uncertainty, which now clouds the world, will be torn away. Death will be swallowed up by life, tears will be wiped away, and our reproach will be no more. What a joyful celebration that will be! Even now, the anticipation of it should stir our hearts to thankfulness.

Are you poor? Make God your stronghold. Are you in need and distress? He is your hiding place. Does the storm rage around you? Flee to Him for refuge. Are you scorched by the heat of temptation? Stand beneath His shadow. God, your Father, will not leave you alone. Your need is your greatest argument; your helplessness is the most compelling plea. For you, too, there will be song and feasting (Isaiah 25:4-6).

Praise is the highest form of worship. In prayer, we often come to God with requests, but in praise, we adore Him simply for who He is. However tired or weary you may be, ensure that your morning devotions begin with thanksgiving and adoration. It’s amazing how this will quicken the pulse of the soul and impact the rest of your day. “Awake, psaltery and harp,” said the Psalmist, “I will awake the dawn.”

Prayer

O Lord, You are my God. I will exalt You and praise Your name, for You have done wonderful things for my soul. Your plans from long ago are faithful and true. Amen.