Feb 17 – With Your Enemies ( 45)

Main Idea: Conflicts and struggles in our lives can be transformed by a powerful, loving God ​ ​ who controls the world He made and all who are in it. The "new thing" that God does for his people in the by delivering them from the Babylonian captivity should encourage us to seek Him in the midst of our own challenges and limitations. What "new thing" awaits us who put our faith and trust in Him?

Look Back (Review your challenge from last week)

Last week you were challenged to write out a prayer journal centered on an anxiety in your life. Did anyone in your group complete that challenge? If they are comfortable, give them a chance to share.

Look Up (Wrestle with the passage itself)

Read :24-28

In these verses we are reminded that the God who created the world is also the God who directs the flow of history. In this passage we find a remarkable name, that of Cyrus. , king of Medo–Persia, ruled from 559 BC to 530 BC. He is best known as the conqueror of in 539 BC and as such was used by God for the deliverance of His people. In fact Cyrus here in this passage is referred to as God's shepherd and as the one who delivers from the hands of 's enemies after 70 years of captivity (see Jeremiah 25:8-14).

Read Isaiah 45:1-13

These verses further develop the theme that was begun at the end of Isaiah 44. Because the Lord has called Cyrus for the sake of his people Israel (45:3, 4), He even refers to him as his anointed one (45:1; "mashiach"- the basis of the word Messiah, and a term used throughout the Old Testament for prophets, priests and kings). Cyrus does not know the one true living God of Israel (25:4, 5) but God uses him for His purposes of deliverance.

Read Isaiah 45:14-25

In these verses we find a broader, more complete picture of the God who delivers his people. He is the same God who fashioned the world by His knowledge and power. He is both creator of the world and revealer of divine truth (45:18, 19). His invitation for salvation is for all the world (45:22, 23), but not all will accept His truth and be delivered (45:16, 17).

Discussion Question: Sometimes looking at the big picture help us see things more clearly. ​ Can you think of surprising things that have occurred within the context of recent history, say over the last 50 years or so? In what ways might we see the hand of God in such developments?

Discussion Question: Can you think of circumstances in your life when you have for all intents ​ and purposes given up on God? Have you ever questioned God's timing in your life or His seeming lack of attention to your circumstances and problems?

Look Forward (Challenge to do something with it)

Discussion Question: How can a greater understanding of who God is help us in the midst of ​ our challenges and conflicts? How might we develop a better understanding of the role that other people play in our lives, both negative and positive? What about our impact upon others? Have we missed out on opportunities to help or encourage others because of our own lack of faith and trust?

Challenge: In your study of Isaiah this week, highlight passages that enable you to trust in God ​ and in His power and goodness. Consider and pray concerning relationships in your life that could be turned around with God's help. Take a step forward in that direction this week by reaching out to someone with whom you have a relationship that could be enhanced or even transformed by the amazing power and wisdom of God who can make all things new. Try not to be surprised by the God who surprises.