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The One True God Who Saves and Sustains

Isaiah 44-46 & Psalm 135

Isaiah proclaims that God alone is the Creator and Redeemer of Israel. He mocks the foolishness of idols made by human hands that cannot see, hear, or save. God reassures His people that He will pour out His Spirit and fulfill His promises. The chapter emphasizes God’s unmatched power and the futility of trusting anything besides Him. It calls us to worship the true God who alone brings salvation and restoration.

This chapter reveals God’s control over world history by naming Cyrus, the Persian king, as His chosen instrument to deliver Israel from exile. God declares that He alone can reveal the future and accomplish His purposes. He invites all nations to turn to Him for salvation because He is the Lord and there is no other. This chapter highlights God’s redemptive plan extending beyond Israel to the whole world.

God contrasts Himself with idols that must be carried by human hands and eventually stumble. He declares His everlasting nature and that He carries His people, supporting them throughout life. God promises that His purposes will stand and that He will accomplish all He intends. This chapter comforts believers with the assurance that the Lord sustains and guides them, unlike powerless idols.

This psalm calls God’s people to praise the Lord who reigns over all creation. It celebrates His mighty works, His faithfulness to Israel, and His justice against the gods of the nations. The psalm reminds believers that God’s name endures forever and that He is worthy of all worship because of His power and love. This chapter complements Isaiah’s message by urging heartfelt praise to the true God who saves and sustains.

Isaiah 44 through 46 and Psalm 135 collectively affirm the uniqueness and sovereignty of God. He alone is Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer. The folly of idols is starkly contrasted with the power and faithfulness of the Lord. God’s plan includes using even foreign kings like Cyrus to fulfill His purposes, showing that His redemptive reach is universal. Our response should be unwavering trust and joyful praise for the God who carries us, directs history, and offers salvation to all who turn to Him.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does recognizing God’s unique sovereignty affect the way I worship and trust Him

  • Are there idols in my life that I have placed before the living God

  • What can I learn from God’s use of Cyrus about His control over circumstances in my life

  • How do I experience God carrying and sustaining me in difficult times

  • In what ways can I cultivate a heart of praise like that expressed in Psalm 135