Isaiah 41:1 English Standard Version (ESV)

Fear Not, for I Am with You

“Listen to me in silence, O coastlands; let the peoples renew their strength; let them approach, then let them speak; let us together draw near for judgment.”

Let us begin with the understanding that we are in covenant relationship with the Lord in order to approach and speak with Him. Let us also acknowledge that we are alone in our approach. It is personal and intimate. Speak what is on our minds. This drawing together is calling for agreement.

What is the first thing to be judged?

Proverbs 12:5a English Standard Version (ESV) The thoughts of the righteous are just;

Job 35:2 English Standard Version (ESV) “Do you think this to be just? Do you say, ‘It is my right before God,’

If the thoughts of our minds are just, God agrees. If not, truth is revealed and then we have to reconcile our thoughts to agree with God. How can we carry righteous judgment into this world if we cannot agree with God about our own thoughts? We have to submit ourselves to correction before we can speak truth to a lost and dying world that needs to hear the truth.

Acts 14:3 English Standard Version (ESV) So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

Manifestations of grace are only extended in truth. This can only be accomplished if we are in agreement with God. Right thinking leads to right judgment which leads to right action.

1 Corinthians 1:20 English Standard Version (ESV) Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?