Isaiah the prophet finds himself in the very throne room of God Almighty in chapter 6. How terrifying for those who are guilty and stained with sin! Isaiah feels the full thrust of his own unworthiness in Isaiah 6:5. Not only does he feel the guilt of his own words, but he feels guilty for his association with people who use unwholesome words. Are my words good, right, and pure? Am I troubled by unwholesome and vile words that pierce my ears?
The unveiled holiness and purity of the King, the Lord of hosts is penetrating to the depths of the soul.
Isaiah has been called and commissioned to the proclaim truth to the small nation of Judah. He has been uniquely positioned to speak directly to four kings of Judah over a 53 year period (739-686BC). In these opening chapters, Isaiah is speaking to Judah and the city of Jerusalem of their desperate condition. Yet they remain unmoved. Their guilt is great despite their religious activities.
Isaiah 3:8 grabbed my attention for my longing this year is to meet Face to Face with the King. Here Jerusalem and Judah have defied his glorious presence, because of their speech and deeds.
What is present in my life that is against the LORD and defies his glorious presence? Am I like Jerusalem and Judah in my weekly worship? Do I provoke him to his face with my worship, speech, or deeds? Isaiah 65:3
Isaiah is declaring to the nation there is another way that avoids judgment. The King willingly pardons the guilty. Isaiah prophet experiences it in Isaiah 6:7. “Your guilt is taken away.” Thanks be to God for his grace and forgiveness!