Water in the Wilderness

Isaiah 34 speaks forcefully of the consequences of human arrogance, opposition to God, and finding fulfillment apart from God: the land becomes a desolate wasteland. In many ways, this is becoming an increasing reality in the UK as people suffer the consequences of turning from God: more broken families, loneliness, and increasing mental health issues. The next chapter is a stunning contrast, showing the great blessing of a land restored by God. On Sunday 28 May, Derek shared Isaiah 35 with the church, and the more we read it the more we see how it encapsulates so much of what we feel God has been saying to us these past months.

See the full text with observations

• v1-2: God is bringing joy to parched and desolate lives

• v3-4: We must be strong and not fear

• v5-6a: Expect God to do amazing things

• v6b-7: His blessing will come as rushing water in the wilderness

• v8-10a: This blessing leads to our redemption and being set apart for God

• v10b: Joy has the last word!

This 30 June article by Malcolm McDonald titled Why Has Revival Not Yet Come to the UK? is compelling because of the repeated imagery he uses related to rushing water, especially from Isaiah 35.