Preparing the Way
12/12/2024
“A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.’” – Isaiah 40:3 (NIV)
Isaiah 40:3 is a powerful verse that speaks both to the people of Israel in their time of exile and to us today. This verse heralds the coming of God’s deliverance, pointing forward to John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus. In a literal sense, it speaks of creating a straight path for the Lord—removing obstacles and making room for His presence.
For the Israelites, this message was one of hope and restoration. They were in a “wilderness” of despair, longing for God’s intervention. For us, the wilderness may look different: seasons of doubt, busyness, or complacency that hinder our ability to fully experience God’s presence.
The command to “prepare the way” is an invitation to partner with God. Just as roads are cleared of debris to allow smooth passage, our hearts need the same preparation. This might mean repenting of sin, removing distractions, or prioritizing time with God. When we do, we make space for His glory to shine through.
Here are some steps for you to be able to “prepare the way” for the Lord.
Examine Your Heart
Are there areas in your life that feel like a wilderness—dry, cluttered, or distant from God? Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal any obstacles that need to be cleared.
Create Space for God
Dedicate intentional time to read Scripture, pray, or simply sit in His presence. Making straight paths means removing distractions and focusing on Him.
Be a Voice
Just as John the Baptist prepared others for Jesus, we are called to point people to Christ. Who in your life needs to hear about the hope and restoration found in Him?
Today, identify one thing you can “clear out” of your schedule or your heart to make room for God’s presence. Whether it’s turning off your phone for an hour or spending extra time in worship, take a step toward preparing the way for Him.
Lord, thank You for calling us to prepare the way for Your presence in our lives. Help us to clear the wilderness in our hearts and make straight paths for You to move. Give us courage to share Your message of hope with others and to live as voices that call people to You. Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
“A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.’” – Isaiah 40:3 (NIV)
Isaiah 40:3 is a powerful verse that speaks both to the people of Israel in their time of exile and to us today. This verse heralds the coming of God’s deliverance, pointing forward to John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus. In a literal sense, it speaks of creating a straight path for the Lord—removing obstacles and making room for His presence.
For the Israelites, this message was one of hope and restoration. They were in a “wilderness” of despair, longing for God’s intervention. For us, the wilderness may look different: seasons of doubt, busyness, or complacency that hinder our ability to fully experience God’s presence.
The command to “prepare the way” is an invitation to partner with God. Just as roads are cleared of debris to allow smooth passage, our hearts need the same preparation. This might mean repenting of sin, removing distractions, or prioritizing time with God. When we do, we make space for His glory to shine through.
Here are some steps for you to be able to “prepare the way” for the Lord.
Examine Your Heart
Are there areas in your life that feel like a wilderness—dry, cluttered, or distant from God? Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal any obstacles that need to be cleared.
Create Space for God
Dedicate intentional time to read Scripture, pray, or simply sit in His presence. Making straight paths means removing distractions and focusing on Him.
Be a Voice
Just as John the Baptist prepared others for Jesus, we are called to point people to Christ. Who in your life needs to hear about the hope and restoration found in Him?
Today, identify one thing you can “clear out” of your schedule or your heart to make room for God’s presence. Whether it’s turning off your phone for an hour or spending extra time in worship, take a step toward preparing the way for Him.
Lord, thank You for calling us to prepare the way for Your presence in our lives. Help us to clear the wilderness in our hearts and make straight paths for You to move. Give us courage to share Your message of hope with others and to live as voices that call people to You. Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
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