Rooted In Christ
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Isaiah 17; Isaiah 18 and Psalm 118:1-14 (NIV)
(Tan Chin Meng from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Isaiah 17; Isaiah 18; Psalm 118 (NIV)
Isaiah 17:7
In that day people will look to their Maker and turn their eyes to the Holy One of Israel.
Psalm 118:14
The Lord is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation
OBSERVE:
Once a thriving metropolis, Damascus is foretold to fall into desolation, its streets and buildings reduced into ruinous heap. The chapter also foretells the coming destructions and desolation to Israel but contains the promise of a faithful remnant who will turn back to God. Isaiah 17 warns against misplaced trust in human strength, idols or alliances, while Isaiah 18 presents a vision of the Ethiopians worshipping our Lord. Both chapters caution against relying on human strength instead of our God’s divine guidance. Together these passages emphasize God’s ultimate authority over nations and call for heartfelt repentance and reverence.
APPLY:
These chapters serve as a profound reminder to keep my focus on God, the true and enduring source of strength and salvation.
Modern life often emphasizes human solutions, personal ambition or influence and economic power to solve challenges. I want to look beyond these worldly mechanisms recognising that ultimate solutions and wisdom reside with God. Trusting in human authority alone can lead to anxiety, frustration and even disastrous outcomes. By shifting focus from worldly powers to divine guidance, I can draw strength from a higher source of wisdom and direction.
DO:
“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit” says the Lord. In all challenges, whether in work, ministry or relationship, I will prioritize obedience to God and trusting in His words and not relying on my own strength.
God is sovereign and always has a plan, even amid chaos and despair. I will trust in His plan as I know that God is in control and has a purpose behind our experiences.
I will trust in God’s sovereignty, providence and ultimate restoration, acknowledging God’s hand in all aspects of life.
PRAY:
Heavenly Father,
You who reign over all nations. May Your mercy guide me in the paths of love, obedience and righteousness. I pray that my heart will continually seek You, trusting Your divine plans even in times of uncertainty. Let my life bear witness to Your goodness, bringing hope, encouragement and light to those around me. Strengthen me to serve You with joy, courage and humility, and help me reflect Your love in every word, thought and action.
In the almighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
