The Acceptance Speech I Didn’t Give, Because I Didn’t Win (Or Did I?)
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
Note: I wrote this last week, but I ran out of time to add the photos and upload it. Even though the award ceremony wasn’t last night … I wanted to share what was on my heart the day after my “loss.”
Last night at the Realm Maker’s Conference, the second novel that I wrote with Nathan, Flight of Fate was up for an award … and it didn’t win. It wasn’t an Honorable Mention. I was disappointed, of course, mostly for my son’s sake. How cool would that have been for him?
But if I were truthful, I wanted it for myself too.
First, because I love Flight of Fate. Second, because most of the publishing team was in the room, and they worked hard on it, too. But third, because I wanted to share the stories behind the novel. If you know me, you know every novel has an interesting twist in how it came to be. This one especially…
(But before I get to that, I wanted to share some photos of Nathan and me on our way to the cosplay award ceremony!)
Dressed as Theodora
Nathan’s full costume
Flight of Fate is a story that’s been growing in my mind and heart for a while.
It Started in 1994.
In 1994, I was at my second Mt. Herman’s Christian Writers’ Conference when I met Steve Laube. Steve was an editor at Bethany House at the time. I know I pitched him a novel idea. I also know he didn’t like it. In fact, for the next seven years, Steve didn’t like any of my book ideas. But then … in 2001 … he did.
I remember it as clear as day. I was sitting at Steve’s table for lunch at the Mt. Hermon Christian Writers’ Conference. There was general chit-chat as we had just started lunch, and then Steve spoke, and the table fell silent. Surprisingly, Steve turned to me. “Tricia, the idea you sent in is excellent. This is the one that’s going to get published.”
Now, Steve wasn’t offering me a contract, yet he saw something different about From Dust and Ashes. My writing had improved, but more importantly, the story about the liberation of Mauthausen Concentration Camp mattered. I’d been to Mauthausen. I’d talked to historians and people who’d lived outside of the camp. I’d interviewed veterans.
Steve had been right. From Dust and Ashes was published by Moody Publishing, along with my first seven novels, launching my career. Yet that wasn’t the only seed that was planted that day. (More of the story after the photo.)
Tricia Goyer, Steve Laube, Paul McCusker, Nathan Goyer
My First Critique Partner/Co-Writer
Sitting at the table that day was a young mom, Ocienanna Fleiss. We didn’t get a chance to talk at Mt. Hermon, but she was at the airport waiting for the same flight home and approached me.
“That’s so cool what Steve said. Is there any way I could read it?”
I proudly showed Ocieanna my novel proposal and eagerly awaited her response. It wasn’t what I expected. “Well, it’s good. I can see why Steve said that. But …”
I held my breath, waiting for her to continue.
“You use a lot of that’s.”
I gasped, shocked by her blunt assessment.
After taking the pages back, I read the first page. Ocieanna was right! There were at least five instances of “that” that I could cut. Her truthfulness was a gift to me. And Ocieanna was a faithful friend and amazing critique partner, and she went on to edit my next eight books before I turned them in. But that isn’t the most amazing part. A few years later, we had the chance to co-write three books together: Finding Love in Lonesome Prairie, Montana; Finding Love in Glacier Bay, Alaska; and Finding Love in Victory Heights, Washington. What a gift!
Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss
And the amazing thing was that both Steven and Ocieanna were in that room last night. Wouldn’t it have been amazing for them to be there for this win?
To tell you the truth, if I had won, I would have been tempted to share about the moment Steve called out my new level of skill and the connection with Ocieanna. I also would have wanted to share how Flight of Fate’s plot took on new life after a meeting with an Italian historian.
The Story Behind Flight of Fate
When Nathan and I were just starting Book 2, we had a Zoom interview with Raffaele Romano, a curator and tour guide from Naples. We were researching Nazi-stolen artifacts during World War II, and as the interview ended I asked, “Is there anything we should know that we didn’t ask?”
“You haven’t asked me about the mafia,” Raffaele said.
That one sentence changed everything.
Raffaele paused. Then, as casually as if he were offering me an extra scoop of gelato, he said:
“You haven’t asked about the mafia.”
Yes, the Mafia Had a Secret Role in WWII
Up until that moment, I had been focused on mystical artifacts, Nazi theft, stolen artwork, and volcanic chaos. But suddenly, my brain was spinning in a whole new direction.
Because, yes—while American and British forces were battling the Axis in Italy, there was another power at play in the shadows.
The Sicilian Mafia (known as Cosa Nostra) had been suppressed under Mussolini’s fascist rule in the 1920s and ’30s. However, when Allied forces invaded Sicily in 1943, something surprising happened: the Mafia made a comeback. And not just any comeback—a strategic, calculated one.
The U.S. military, scrambling for allies on the ground, reportedly turned to some rather unusual sources for help. Enter Mafia boss Charles “Lucky” Luciano—yes, the American Mafia kingpin, who was conveniently in a New York prison at the time. In exchange for some leniency, he allegedly used his underworld connections to help Allied intelligence secure Sicily.
Meanwhile, in Naples—where part of our story takes place—the Mafia was alive and well. And they weren’t just smuggling black-market goods or running gambling rings—they were also influencing who controlled their country. (Hint: the Germans may have gotten the boot outta the Boot!)
And Just Like That, A Different Story Emerged!
With this new information, our fictional world suddenly cracked wide open. How could we tie the Mafia into the world of ancient legends and steampunk warfare? Are they good? Evil? Somewhere in between? We could twist those scenarios into tales of sacrifice and duty we had already explored in Breath of Bones. There were lots of directions we could go, and boy, did we go!
I love Flight of Fate, and I was even dressed as Theodora for cosplay. Yet the novel didn’t win, and so I couldn’t tell this story either.
I also didn’t have a chance to thank Nathan for dealing with my frantic writing. Or thank John for always believing in me. Or thank the amazing publishing team at Enclave. Or thank this new community at Realm Makers for accepting this “ordinary” writer and helping her expand her creativity in extraordinary ways.
And I would have concluded by thanking God for putting the desire to write on my heart. He gave me the desire, then the ability, and the gift. God has done far more in my life than I would ever have dreamed of or imagined.
I Won After All
I didn’t stand on that stage last night, but I truly did win after all. A shiny trophy on a shelf would have been nice, but would never compare to the treasures God has already given me: a story and co-authors, publishing friends, and a community.
An abundance of rewards sat right there in that crowded room: collaborating with my son, Nathan, and watching his creative spirit soar. Steve and Ocieanna, remembering the faithful beginnings of a career I never could have built on my own. My publishing team and community. Also, the constant support of John and God’s numerous gifts.
Awards fade, but the community and the deep relationships we forge along the journey should be celebrated—thank you for indulging me and allowing me to do just that.
Overall, God’s grace has woven a story in my life that is far richer than any plot Nathan and I could ever map out on paper. As Ephesians 3:20 reminds us, He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (NIV), and God does it in my life every day.
So no, my name wasn’t called from the podium last night. But as I sat there in my Theodora cosplay, surrounded by the people I love, I knew the truth. My heart was full, and I had already walked away with the ultimate prize.
Friend, I’m also thankful for you. First, for your support, and second, for allowing me to tell my story. You’re someone I’m also thankful for, and if I had won, I wouldn’t have written this or been reminded to tell you… thank you.
P.S. If Realm Makers has you feeling inspired to finally finish your manuscript, I have something special planned for you.
The journey from a blank page to a completed draft requires deep focus and a solid strategy. As Anne Lamott notes in Bird by Bird (Lamott, 1994), taking things one step at a time is the best way to complete a manuscript. To help you tackle your own projects, I am organizing a new series of writing events called The Finish Line Intensive.
We will be gathering in October 2026 to provide the community, structure, and accountability needed to get your book done. Whether you are drafting a novel or compiling non-fiction, let us gather together and get those words on the page. You can secure your spot and find all the details right here.
I hope you can join us!
Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
July 13
Psalms 120-121, 123, 125-126
God Never Slumbers
Welcome to today’s exploration of Psalms 120 to 126, a series of songs known as the “Songs of Ascents.” These psalms were likely sung by pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem, including Jesus Himself. Our Word of the Day is “Slumber,” emphasizing the comforting truth that our God never sleeps. Let’s dive into these psalms and uncover the richness of God’s enduring presence and guidance.
Psalm 120: A Cry for Peace
Psalm 120 begins the Songs of Ascents with a heartfelt cry for peace and truth. The psalmist laments living among deceitful and warlike people and calls out to the Lord for rescue.
"I took my troubles to the Lord; I cried out to him, and he answered my prayer." (v. 1) "I search for peace; but when I speak of peace, they want war!" (v. 7)
Reflect on times when you have sought peace amid conflict. How can you trust God to bring truth and peace into your life?
Psalm 121: Our Ever-Watchful Protector
Psalm 121 reassures us that our help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He watches over us and never slumbers, offering constant protection and guidance.
"He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber." (v. 3) "The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade." (v. 5)
Consider the comfort of knowing that God is always watching over you. How does this truth affect your daily life and sense of security?
Psalm 123: Looking to the Lord for Mercy
Psalm 123 is a humble plea for God’s mercy. The psalmist compares their dependence on God to a servant’s reliance on their master, highlighting the community’s unified gaze towards the Lord.
"I lift my eyes to you, O God, enthroned in heaven." (v. 1) "We keep looking to the LORD our God for his mercy, just as servants keep their eyes on their master." (v. 2)
Reflect on your dependence on God for mercy and guidance. How can you cultivate a heart that continually looks to the Lord?
Psalm 125: The Security of Trusting in the Lord
Psalm 125 speaks to the security and steadfastness of those who trust in the Lord. It likens them to Mount Zion, unshakable and enduring forever.
"Those who trust in the LORD are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever." (v. 1) "Just as the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, both now and forever." (v. 2)
Think about how trusting in God provides a secure foundation in your life. How can you strengthen your trust in Him amidst life’s uncertainties?
Psalm 126: Joy and Restoration
Psalm 126 is a song of joy and restoration, recalling a time when the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion. It transitions from joyous remembrance to a prayer for continued restoration, affirming that those who sow in tears will reap with joy.
"When the LORD brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream!" (v. 1) "Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy." (v. 5)
Reflect on times of joy and restoration in your life. How can you trust God to bring joy out of your sorrows and challenges?
Word of the Day: Slumber
Definition: a state of sleep or of drowsiness.
Psalm 121:3-4
“He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, he who watches over Israel never slumbers or sleeps.”
Our God never slumbers, offering constant watchfulness and protection. This truth should stir us from spiritual complacency and inspire us to live awake to His presence and guidance.
The Songs of Ascents remind us of God’s unending vigilance and care. Through these psalms, we are invited to trust in God’s protection, seek His mercy, and rejoice in His restoration.
How will you embrace and celebrate God’s watchful care this week? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s support and inspire each other on this journey of faith.
July 14
Psalms 128-130, 132, 134-135
Finding Hope in God’s Promises
Welcome to today’s exploration of Psalms 128 to 135, a series of “Songs of Ascents” that offer profound insights into living a life of faith. Our Word of the Day is “Hope,” highlighting the expectation and desire for God’s promises to come true. Let’s dive into these psalms and discover the richness of God’s enduring presence and guidance.
Psalm 128: Blessings of Fearing the Lord
Psalm 128 reflects on the blessings of fearing the Lord and walking in His ways. It emphasizes the joy and prosperity found in living a life devoted to God.
Key Verses:
"You will enjoy the fruit of your labor. How joyful and prosperous you will be!" (v. 2) "Yes, this will be the blessing for the man who fears the LORD. May the LORD bless you from Zion; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life." (v. 4-5)
Reflect on the true meaning of prosperity—not wealth, but enjoying the fruit of your labor. How can you align your life more closely with God’s ways to experience His blessings?
Psalm 129: Overcoming Affliction
Psalm 129 speaks of the intense afflictions faced by the psalmist, comparing them to a farmer plowing long furrows on their back. Despite these hardships, the psalmist affirms that the wicked have not prevailed.
Key Verses:
"My back is covered with cuts, as if a farmer had plowed long furrows." (v. 3) "But the LORD is righteous; he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked." (v. 4)
Consider the afflictions you have faced. How has God brought you through these challenges, and how can you trust Him to continue to deliver you from future trials?
Psalm 130: A Cry for Mercy and Forgiveness
Psalm 130, a Penitential Psalm, is a heartfelt cry for God’s mercy and forgiveness. It emphasizes waiting and hoping for the Lord, more than watchmen wait for the morning.
Key Verses:
"I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope." (v. 5) "Israel, put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with him is full redemption." (v. 7)
Reflect on the importance of repentance and seeking God’s mercy. How can you cultivate a deeper sense of waiting and hoping for the Lord in your life?
Psalm 132: Remembering David’s Devotion
Psalm 132 recalls David’s deep love for God and the promises made to him. It emphasizes God’s choice of Zion as His dwelling place and His blessings upon it.
Key Verses:
"For the LORD has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling, saying, 'This is my resting place forever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it. I will bless her with abundant provisions; her poor I will satisfy with food.'" (v. 13-15)
Consider God’s promises and His chosen place of dwelling. How can you deepen your devotion to God and trust in His plans for your life?
Psalm 134: A Call to Praise
Psalm 134 is the last of the Songs of Ascents and is a call to the priests and Levites to continue their service of praise, with a blessing spoken back to the people.
Key Verses:
"Oh, praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, you who serve at night in the house of the LORD." (v. 1) "May the LORD, who made heaven and earth, bless you from Jerusalem." (v. 3)
Reflect on the importance of continuous praise and worship. How can you make praise a regular part of your daily routine?
Psalm 135: Praising God’s Sovereignty
Psalm 135 uses various passages from the Hebrew Scriptures to praise God for His goodness, miraculous acts, and enduring fame.
Key Verses:
"I know that the LORD is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods. The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths." (v. 5-6)
Consider the sovereignty and greatness of God. How can acknowledging His power and authority transform your outlook on life?
Word of the Day: Hope
Definition: The feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.
Reflections on Hope:
- Psalm 128:4-5: Hope in God’s blessing.
- Psalm 129:4-5: Hope in God’s justice.
- Psalm 130:5-7: Hope in God’s mercy.
- Psalm 132:13-15: Hope in God’s reign and chosen place of dwelling.
- Psalm 134:3: Hope in God as Creator.
- Psalm 135:5-6: Hope for God’s sovereignty.
These verses showcase a sense of hope—hope in God’s blessings, His justice, His mercy, His chosen place of dwelling, His creation, and His sovereignty.
The Songs of Ascents remind us that hope should be rooted in the fear of the Lord and nurtured through waiting. Through hope, these psalms invite us to journey from the trials of life to the blessings of God’s presence. In the symphony of these songs, hope rises as we sing of God’s steadfast love, His abundant blessings, and His sovereign power.
How will you embrace and celebrate God’s watchful care and enduring hope this week? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let’s support and inspire each other on this journey of faith.
Feel free to share this post and join our Daily Bible Podcast for more insights and reflections. Together, let’s make our journey through the Bible a joyous and enriching experience.
July 15
Psalm 136, 146-150
The Call to Praise
Psalm 136 – The Great Hallel
Psalm 136 is unique, with each of its 26 verses repeating the powerful declaration, “His mercy endures forever.” This phrase holds a liturgical significance, envisioning a grand assembly of God’s people in the temple courts. As a priest or Levite calls out reasons to thank God, the congregation responds with, “For His faithful love endures forever.”
In Jewish tradition, Psalm 136 is known as the Great Hallel (Great Psalm of Praise). Although it does not use the words “hallelujah,” it rehearses God’s goodness towards His people and urges them to praise Him for His steadfast love.
Psalm 146 – Magnifying God’s Majesty
Psalm 146 continues the theme of praise, reminding us of God’s creative promises and magnifying His character and majesty. The psalmist’s words inspire us to reflect on God’s enduring nature and His ongoing commitment to His creation.
Psalm 147 – God’s Power and Compassion
Psalm 147 is a song of praise celebrating God’s power, wisdom, and care for Jerusalem. The Psalmist recounts God’s ability to heal the brokenhearted and number the stars, bringing awe with the juxtaposition of these concepts.
Psalm 147:4-6 - "He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds. He counts the stars and calls them all by name. How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension!"
- God counts the stars: His greatness extends beyond our understanding.
- God heals the brokenhearted: His compassion is closer than we realize.
Psalm 148 – A Universal Call to Praise
Psalm 148 calls all creation, from the heavens to the earth, to praise the Lord. This psalm includes the heavens, sky, angels, weather, creatures of land and sea, and all people. It concludes with a note that God’s praise should be sung by His faithful ones, the people close to His heart.
This command to praise is more than a poetic expression; it’s a divine reality, as seen in Revelation: Revelation 5:11-13 – “Then I looked again, and I heard the voices of thousands and millions of angels around the throne and of the living beings and the elders. And they sang in a mighty chorus, ‘Worthy is the Lamb who was slaughtered— to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and blessing.’ And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: ‘Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever.'”
Psalm 149 – Joyful Praise and Spiritual Battle
Psalm 149 is a song of joy for Israel, calling them to praise God with singing, dancing, and musical instruments. It highlights God’s delight in His people and His crowning of the humble with victory.
The psalm also speaks of God’s people executing His justice, a concept paralleled in the New Testament as a spiritual battle. God’s Word is described as a two-edged sword in Revelation 19:15 and Hebrews 4:12, and as the sword of the Spirit in Ephesians 6:17.
Psalm 150 – The Final Benediction
Psalm 150 beautifully concludes the Book of Psalms with a resounding call to praise:
"Praise the Lord! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heaven! Praise him for his mighty works; praise his unequaled greatness! Praise him with a blast of the ram’s horn; praise him with the lyre and harp! Praise him with the tambourine and dancing; praise him with strings and flutes! Praise him with a clash of cymbals; praise him with loud clanging cymbals. Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord!"
Word of the Day: Praise
Definition: Express warm approval or admiration of.
Ways to Praise
Praise does not come naturally, as people are inherently self-centered. However, we can cultivate a lifestyle of praise by considering the various ways outlined in these Psalms:
- Personal Reflection: Reflect on how God has loved, cared for, and empowered you. Consider His creation, provision, and compassion.
- Gratitude: Recognize that all good comes from God and practice gratitude. Thank God for the simple and profound blessings in your life.
- Prayer: Make praise a priority in your prayers, not just requests.
- Creative Expression: Praise God through singing, dancing, playing an instrument, painting, or other creative outlets.
- Endurance: Praise God even through trials, remembering His presence in your struggles.
- Community: Share God’s love and goodness, worshiping together with others.
Incorporating praise into daily life can deepen your relationship with God and enhance your understanding of His character and love. Let the Word of the Day—Praise—resonate in your heart and actions, leading you to a more fulfilling and spiritually enriched life.
July 16
Isaiah 18-23
The Watchman – A Guardian of God’s People
In ancient Israel, watchmen were guards responsible for protecting towns and military installations from surprise enemy attacks and other potential dangers. Their job was to keep watch and warn the townspeople of impending threats. Today, we explore how this role is depicted in Isaiah 18-20 and how it applies to our spiritual lives.
Isaiah 18: Prophecy Against Cush
Isaiah 18 is a prophecy against the land of Cush, sometimes called Ethiopia. Known for their emissaries traveling via sea in vessels of papyrus, Isaiah declares that God will notice and cut down the people, leaving them for the birds of prey and animals. Yet, despite this judgment, gifts will be brought to Jerusalem. Isaiah 18:7: “They will bring gifts to Jerusalem, where the Lord of Heaven’s Armies dwells.”
Isaiah 19: Prophecy Against Egypt
Isaiah 19 foretells a dire prophecy against Egypt. The nation will be handed over to a harsh master, and the Nile River will dry up, leading to economic disaster. Egyptians will turn against each other, leading to civil strife. However, there is a glimmer of hope as Egyptians will turn to the Lord, who will send them a savior. Isaiah 19:20: “It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue them.” In the end, Egypt, Assyria, and Israel will worship together in peace, with Egypt becoming God’s people.
Isaiah 20: A Sign Against Egypt and Cush
Isaiah 20 describes Isaiah acting as a sign against Egypt and Cush by walking barefoot and partially naked for three years. This act symbolized the complete poverty and humiliation that Egypt and Cush would face when led away as captives by the Assyrians. This was a stark warning to Judah not to rely on these nations for military assistance. EnduringWord.com: “We shouldn’t think that Isaiah was nude, completely without clothing. Instead, he only wore the inner garment customary in that day – sort of like wearing only your underwear or a nightshirt.”
Isaiah 21-23: Messages to Nations
Babylon: Isaiah delivers a fearful message about Babylon’s impending doom, causing even the messenger to grow faint. Watchmen: Isaiah mentions watchmen three times, emphasizing the need for vigilance. Isaiah 21:9: “Babylon is fallen, fallen!”
Edom: A conversation among watchmen hints at the end of Assyrian oppression and the brief respite before Babylonian rule. Arabia: A prophecy of battle and destruction where only a few archers will survive. Isaiah 21:16-17: “Within a year, counting each day, all the glory of Kedar will come to an end. Only a few of its courageous archers will survive. I, the Lord, the God of Israel, have spoken.”
Jerusalem – The Valley of Vision: Jerusalem is described as a city on a hill, surrounded by higher hills and three valleys. Isaiah describes the people’s reaction to calamity, their defenses stripped, and their refusal to seek God’s help. Isaiah 22:14: “Till the day you die, you will never be forgiven for this sin.” This judgment was for ignoring the Almighty.
Tyre: Isaiah prophesies mourning for Tyre, synonymous with commerce and materialism, but eventually, God will restore it. Isaiah 23:9: “The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has done it to destroy your pride and bring low all earth’s nobility.”
Word of the Day: Watchman
Definition: (Hebrew: צָפָה tsō-p̄eh or tsa-phah) or "sentinel": the noun is derived from the Hebrew verb meaning to "look out or about, spy, keep watch"; properly "to lean forward."
Being Spiritual Watchmen Today
1. God’s Watchfulness
God is our ultimate watchman, observing everything beyond the borders of His Promised Land. Isaiah 19:4 reminds us that nothing escapes God’s gaze. He watches our actions, words, and thoughts, anticipating our turn towards Him for salvation.
2. Our Role as Watchmen
Just as ancient watchmen guarded cities, we must guard our spiritual lives and warn others. Isaiah’s dramatic act of walking barefoot and partially naked symbolizes the vulnerability and humility needed in our faith journey. We must rely on God rather than worldly powers or riches.
3. Warnings and Guidance
As spiritual leaders, we are called to be watchmen, guiding others toward God and warning them of judgment. Hebrews 13:7 emphasizes the responsibility of spiritual leaders to watch over souls and be accountable to God.
Embracing the role of a watchman in our spiritual lives means staying vigilant, humble, and dependent on God. We must warn others of impending dangers and guide them towards the eternal hope found in God. Let us root our trust not in our plans or resources but in the unchanging and eternal God.
July 17
Isaiah 24-27, 29
God as Our Tower of Refuge
The Heavy Prophecy of Isaiah 24
Today’s reading begins with the somber message of destruction in Isaiah 24. The earth will be emptied and looted due to the sins of its people, illustrating the consequences of breaking the covenant with God. This chapter serves as a stark reminder of the weight of ignoring the Lord, but it also highlights the remnant who continue to praise His name amidst the hardship.
Isaiah 25: Praise Amidst Tribulation
Isaiah 25 shifts from the destruction to a song of praise for God. This chapter emphasizes the importance of praising God even during tribulations. The people acknowledge God as their refuge and fortress, recognizing His power to swallow up death forever and wipe away all tears. This passage gives us a glimpse of the hope and peace that comes from trusting in God.
Isaiah 25:1: “O LORD, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them.”
Isaiah 26: Trust in God as the Eternal Rock
In Isaiah 26, we see a vision of perfect peace for those who trust in the Lord. This chapter encourages us to keep our thoughts fixed on God and trust in Him as our eternal Rock.
Isaiah 26:3-4: “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD God is the eternal Rock.”
Isaiah 27: God’s Power Over Leviathan
Isaiah 27 depicts God’s power over Leviathan, symbolizing chaos and evil. God promises to protect His vineyard, Israel, and to gather His people, emphasizing His sovereignty and care.
Psalm 104:25-27: “Here is the ocean, vast and wide, teeming with life of every kind, both large and small. See the ships sailing along and Leviathan, which you made to play in the sea. They all depend on you to give them food as they need it.”
Isaiah 29: Doom for Jerusalem and Promise of Restoration
Isaiah 29 prophesies doom for Jerusalem, also known as Ariel. The chapter highlights the people’s lip service to God while their hearts are far from Him. However, it ends with a promise of restoration, where the humble will find joy in the Lord.
Isaiah 29:13: “The Lord says: ‘These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.’”
Isaiah 29:19: “The humble will be filled with fresh joy from the LORD. The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.”
Word of the Day: Tower
Definition: A strong tower was a central place in ancient cities where people could run when facing danger and find safety and protection.
God is depicted as a strong tower, providing refuge and safety.
Proverbs 18:10: “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe.”
Finding Refuge in God
1. The Siege Tower
Isaiah 29:2 speaks of a siege tower, symbolizing God’s judgment against Jerusalem. When we go against God, He will fight against us, but when we humble ourselves before Him, He fights for us.
Isaiah 29:6-7: “I, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, will act for you with thunder and earthquake and great noise, with whirlwind and storm and consuming fire. All the nations fighting against Jerusalem will vanish like a dream! Those who are attacking her walls will vanish like a vision in the night.”
2. God as a Tower of Refuge
Isaiah 25:4 beautifully declares God as a tower of refuge for the poor and needy, a shelter from the storm and heat.
Isaiah 25:4: “But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O LORD, a tower of refuge to the needy in distress. You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat. For the oppressive acts of ruthless people are like a storm beating against a wall.”
Reflecting on these passages, we see the importance of seeking refuge in the Lord. Whether facing tribulation or prosperity, trusting in God as our eternal Rock brings perfect peace. Consider what type of tower the Lord will be to you today. Will you find refuge in Him and trust in His unwavering strength and protection?
July 18
Isaiah 30-33
Look to God as Our Ultimate Protector
Isaiah 30 – Trusting in God Over Egypt
Isaiah 30 opens with a stark critique of the Israelites’ misplaced trust in Egypt rather than in God. In this chapter, God witnesses their reliance on worldly powers and warns of the consequences. Despite their rebellion, God expresses His enduring desire for His people to return to Him, promising grace and justice.
Isaiah 30:6: “This message came to me concerning the animals in the Negev: The caravan moves slowly across the terrible desert to Egypt—donkeys weighed down with riches and camels loaded with treasure—all to pay for Egypt’s protection. They travel through the wilderness, a place of lionesses and lions, a place where vipers and poisonous snakes live. All this, and Egypt will give you nothing in return.” Isaiah 30:18: “So the LORD must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help.”
Isaiah 31 – Futility of Trusting in Earthly Powers
In Isaiah 31, the prophet continues to criticize the Israelites for relying on Egypt’s military might. Isaiah emphasizes that God’s power and wisdom surpass any earthly force. He assures them that God will protect Jerusalem and calls for the people to abandon their idols.
Isaiah 32 – The Promise of a Righteous King
Isaiah 32 brings a hopeful vision: “Look! A righteous king is coming, and honest princes will rule under him.” This prophecy is often seen as referring to Hezekiah, a righteous king of Judah, and foreshadowing Jesus Christ, the King of Kings. The chapter speaks of restoration, justice, and peace under this righteous reign.
Isaiah 32:1: “Look, a righteous king is coming!” Isaiah 32:3: “Then everyone who has eyes will be able to see the truth, and everyone who has ears will be able to hear it.”
Isaiah 33 – Deliverance from Assyria
Isaiah 33 prophesies the downfall of Assyria, which had been plundering and terrorizing Israel. Despite their seemingly unstoppable might, God promises to deliver His people. The chapter transitions from the judgment of enemies to a vision of Jerusalem restored, secure, and filled with joy.
Word of the Day: Look
Definition: An act of directing one’s gaze in order to see someone or something. To examine or study.
Where Are We Looking for Help?
Throughout these chapters, God calls His people to look to Him rather than to Egypt. This message is as relevant today as it was then. We often seek security in our jobs, finances, talents, or relationships—our modern-day “Egypts.” However, these are unstable foundations.
God’s call is clear: trust in Him. His strength, wisdom, and love are far more reliable than any earthly power. Just as God beckoned Israel to return to Him, He calls us to recognize Him as our ultimate protector and provider.
Isaiah 30:15: “This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: ‘Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it.’”
Reflect on where you are placing your trust. Are you looking for temporary security solutions, or are you trusting in God’s everlasting strength and provision? God is waiting for us to turn to Him. He is our rock, our refuge, and our salvation.
July 19
Isaiah 34-35, Micah 2-5
The Remnant of Hope
Isaiah 34 – God’s Wrath Against the Nations
Isaiah 34 is a vivid prophecy of God’s wrath and judgment against the nations, specifically Edom, symbolizing all nations opposed to God. The chapter is filled with stark imagery of total destruction, illustrating the inevitability of God’s justice against sin.
Isaiah 34:11: “It will be haunted by the desert owl and the screech owl, the great owl and the raven. For God will measure that land carefully; he will measure it for chaos and destruction.”
Isaiah 35 – A Vision of Restoration and Redemption
In contrast, Isaiah 35 offers a hopeful vision of God’s redemption. The desert will rejoice and blossom, and the weak and fearful are encouraged with promises of divine retribution and salvation.
Isaiah 35:4: “Say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you.’”
This chapter also hints at the coming of Jesus, the Messiah, who will bring healing and joy. The “Way of Holiness” will be a safe path for God’s people, culminating in a joyful return to Zion with everlasting joy crowning their heads.
Micah 2 – Condemnation and Restoration
Micah 2 begins with a condemnation of those who devise wicked plans and oppress others. It predicts calamity as a divine response to these injustices but ends with a promise of restoration. God will gather His people like a shepherd gathers his flock.
Micah 2:12-13: “Someday, O Israel, I will gather you; I will gather the remnant who are left. I will bring you together again like sheep in a pen, like a flock in its pasture. Yes, your land will again be filled with noisy crowds! Your leader will break out and lead you out of exile, out through the gates of the enemy cities, back to your own land. Your king will lead you; the LORD himself will guide you.”
Micah 3-5 – Judgment and the Promise of a Righteous Ruler
Micah 3: Condemns the leaders of Israel for their injustices, declaring that they will be held responsible for their actions.
Micah 4: Speaks of the Lord’s future reign, the gathering of exiles, and the hope that follows exile and destruction.
Micah 4:10: “Writhe and groan like a woman in labor, you people of Jerusalem, for now you must leave this city to live in the open country. You will soon be sent in exile to distant Babylon. But the Lord will rescue you there; he will redeem you from the grip of your enemies.”
Micah 5: Foretells the birth of a ruler from Bethlehem, pointing to Jesus Christ.
Micah 5:2: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, are only a small village among all the people of Judah. Yet a ruler of Israel, whose origins are in the distant past, will come from you on my behalf.”
Word of the Day: Remnant
Definition: A small remaining quantity of something.
As we read in Isaiah and Micah, the theme of the remnant is prominent. God’s people will face destruction and exile, but a faithful remnant will turn to God and be restored.
Finding Hope as the Remnant
As we read in Isaiah and Micah, three main themes emerge:
- Destruction is coming.
- You will go into exile.
- I will rescue you.
God’s people faced severe consequences for their disobedience, yet hope remained. In exile, a remnant would turn back to God.
Micah 5:3-4: “The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies until the woman in labor gives birth. Then at last his fellow countrymen will return from exile to their own land. And he will stand to lead his flock with the LORD’s strength, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. Then his people will live there undisturbed, for he will be highly honored around the world.”
This message is timeless. In our lives, we often feel like remnants, facing difficult times that seem far from the life we envisioned. Yet, God promises restoration and growth from our challenges. Just as Bethlehem, a small town, became the birthplace of Jesus, our small, seemingly insignificant moments can become the start of something extraordinary in God’s hands.
No matter how desolate or difficult our circumstances, God sees us and values us. We are never just leftovers; we are seeds ready to grow into something beautiful in His plan. Trust in God’s promise of restoration and let Him be your refuge and strength.
