Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I have tremendous hope that our new SOGF Bible study is going to change many lives, while also pulling us closer together as a church community.
I read Isaiah 1 this morning. I was struck by the fact that Isaiah was the main prophet for many years to Judah, and to four kings that served Judah: Uzziah, Jothan, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. Isaiah saw good times and tough times for Judah. In chapter one, from verse 2-15, Isaiah, speaking for God, prophesied some tough messages over the years to Judah. Speaking for God, he prophesied some pretty harsh warnings to Judah. But right in the middle of chapter one comes some hope and guidance from God.
Vs. 16
“Wash yourselves and be clean.”
Vs. 17
“Help the oppressed, defend the orphans, and fight for the widows.”
Vs. 18
I will forgive your sins and I will cleanse you. (My paraphrase)
As we read the entire Bible together as a church, you will find that some chapters don’t move you in any way, some will have a few things speak to you, and some chapters will inspire you in a mighty way. It’s important to remember that the success of this Bible study is that you DO NOT fall behind. Read the chapter for the day. Don’t feel guilty if you have nothing to write about in the chapter that you read.
I’m so excited to see and hear about how this new study changes our lives.
Brian Kamstra
