Read: Isaiah 40:6-17
Who has measured the Spirit of the Lord, or what man shows him his counsel? (v. 13)
It is human nature to try and “humanize” God; we seek to understand him by bringing him down to our level. Sometimes we refer to God as “the man upstairs,” or make jokes at his expense. Sometimes we accuse him of being unfair or unkind and demand an explanation for his actions. Our minds may picture him as a kindly old grandfather or an uncaring bureaucrat. In other words, we seek to make God in our own image.
But this is backwards! We were made in the image of God, but God’s unique qualities—his divine attributes—make him so far above us in every possible way. This portion alone of Isaiah 40 speaks to God’s sovereignty, his power, and his knowledge of all things. His word will stand forever (v. 8); his arm rules with might (v. 10); and his hands have measured and marked the heavens and the earth (v. 12). No wonder Isaiah said that he has no need for human counsel or instruction! Even the nations are like mere drops in a bucket; the coastlands or islands are like fine dust—“less than nothing” (v. 17).
In the coming days, we will consider the unique qualities of our God. We owe him all things: life, breath, forgiveness, salvation, and hope for the life to come. May these meditations deepen our understanding of God, and our reverence and worship of all that he is. —Laura N. Sweet
As you pray, remember to adore God for being so far above us in every way.
About the Author
Laura N. Sweet is a wife, mother, grandmother, and former Christian schoolteacher from Midland, Michigan. She writes devotional material for both adults and children, and her work has appeared in more than a dozen publications.
