July 10 – Reading 191

july 10 – Reading 191

by John Christian Pra | July 10

“WHEN ALL SEEMS LOST”
(Isaiah 11:1-14:32)

“There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit.” – Isaiah 11:1

Common to the human experience is facing tests that could make us or break us. How many of us have walked through a trial that threatened to take us out? For many, these moments in life become turning points where coming to Jesus seems to be the only option. Some call it rock bottom, but whatever you call it, these moments when all seems lost carry great potential. 

For Israel, they were in a season of great decline. They were about to be wiped out by the Assyrians and the lineage of kings that God promised to David was being threatened. The people of Israel as a whole were on the brink of destruction. But from that fear a new hope begins to arise through this prophetic picture of a dead tree stump bringing forth new life. 

What is impossible for man is possible for God. When all seems lost, God is able to make a way through. The promise God makes is that what seems to be finished is really only beginning. Not only would David’s kingly lineage continue, but ultimately this prophecy would be answered forevermore as Jesus now sits enthroned as King of kings. 

What seems lost in your life right now? A prodigal child? A broken marriage? A distressing job? A battle with fear? In that moment when you think it’s over, invite Jesus to step in. Let this be a reminder today: when all seems lost, it’s not. When God enters your story, dead things come back to life. 

Reflections:

• What in your life feels like a lost cause or dead end?
• How does this image of life coming from death encourage your soul?

Application: 

• Write down 3 things that feel like they are lost causes and bring them to Jesus in prayer today. 
• Ask someone what they need prayer for and stand alongside them in their time of need through prayer.
• Invite Jesus into the situations of your life that feel as if they are dead.

Closing Prayer…
Holy God, there is truly none like You. When you enter our stories, what seems lost becomes found. Today, I bring to you all things in my story that feel like they are at an end. Give me fresh vision to see your active hand in my life. And give me confidence that when I cannot see the progress or the work, that you never leave me or forsake me. Thank you, Jesus, that you are working out all things for the good of those who love you. Increase my faith in you today. Amen.