You may remember an experience with God that changed your life. Maybe you had an encounter with him at a youth camp, on a mission trip, or during a special service at your church. Wherever it happened, a powerful experience with God is unforgettable and life changing. That's how it was when the prophet Isaiah encountered God.
Isaiah was a prophet in Judah, the southern kingdom. He received his call from God through a direct vision. In his vision Isaiah saw the holiness of God, and he became intensely aware of his own sin. When God cleansed him of his sins, Isaiah was ready to accept God's challenge to be his messenger.
Isaiah was a prominent figure in the Old Testament. His words continued to have influence in the New Testament. He ministered more than 40 years in Judah, and during that time he gave many specific prophecies about the coming Messiah-prophecies that Jesus would fulfill more than 600 years later. Isaiah is quoted more than 50 times in the New Testament, yet his words fell on deaf ears while he was alive. His death was cruel: He was sawed in half during the reign of the wicked Manasseh.
If you understand Isaiah, then you'll see worship differently. In God's presence Isaiah received a mission from God. Isaiah was faithful to God's call until the day he died. You've probably experienced times of worship when God seemed near and powerful. In times like that, you can count on God's holiness convicting you of sin. Then get ready to receive a glimpse of God's call on your life.
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