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Read: Isaiah 59:16-17
Listen: Isaiah 59

He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so his own arm achieved salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak. Isaiah 59:16-17

The prophet Isaiah ministers to Israel roughly eight hundred years before Paul writes his letter to the church in Ephesus. Israel has rebelled against God and is walking contrary to God’s instructions. Isaiah warns them of the coming judgment and exile, which will be fulfilled one hundred years after his ministry. As part of his prophecy, however, Isaiah also describes God as the one going into battle on behalf of his people. Using language that Paul would later borrow in his letter to the Ephesians, Isaiah describes God as donning armor and garments for battle, indicating that God is the true warrior who fights for his people.

Isaiah’s words should remind us today that spiritual strength and victory are not about trying harder, doing better or engaging in a rigorous self-help program. Rather, strength and victory come from looking to Jesus, our true champion, who has already fought on our behalf. We still have responsibility in this fight, which includes putting on the whole armor of God. But we fight the battle from a place of victory, not uncertainty or timidity.

TODAY: Sing with our worship team the “Jesus Song.” As you join Ada Bible Worship in praising God, reflect on the victory and power you have through Jesus, letting him cultivate a joyful and confident heart in you.