Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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The Righteous Branch Reigns

Bible Reading:  Isaiah 11:1-5

Key Verse: “The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him – the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord…” Isaiah 11:2:


DEVOTION

We see this uplifting passage as written for a people and a nation in conflict. Our world is always in a state of conflict - political, social, economic and so forth. Peace seems to be elusive in both personal and public life. If there is peace, it is but a brief prelude to conflict.

However, the promise of this passage is of one who will possess a divine balance that will foster peace – something that is foundational to a just society and highly sought after by many leaders and governments of the world, but that is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to actually realize.

This descendant of Jesse, and hence of King David, will possess wisdom, understanding, counsel, knowledge, faithfulness and fear of the Lord. He will also have might, righteous judgment, and the power to execute the wicked. This faithful ruler will provide the long-sought after peace by blending those characteristics that are requisites for a peaceful and just society without tilting to extremes.

The one indicated in this passage is understood by Christians to be the risen Christ and hence if we are to be like Him, we must also do our best to nurture wisdom, understanding, knowledge, faithfulness and fear of the Lord in our own lives. By doing so, we can provide some measure of peace in our own lives, our families, and our wider communities in a conflict-filled world.
 

  PRAYER

 Lord, help us to lead disciplined lives and grow in fear and knowledge of You. Amen


Thought of the day

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)



Philip Varghese
St. Johns MTC, NY

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