Isaiah 11:1-10

This beautiful prophetic passage talks about a branch that would grow out of the roots of the stump that Israel's monarchy had become. This branch would bear fruit and have the Spirit of God resting on him. It is easy to discern the subject of this prophecy is Jesus. If it were not apparent to us Paul spells it out in Romans 15:12 and Jesus himself alludes to this passage in his proclamation recorded in Revelation 22:16.

The passage gives us a picture of a wise and understanding king who is strong and capable of giving direction to his subjects. He is also a king who knows and fears God. This king is fair and always does the right thing. He will hold his subjects accountable to the words that he speaks and will bring about unprecedented peace. This is a king that people from all nations will want to follow.

While the description of the king is amazing, I couldn't help thinking about another passage of scripture. 1 Peter 2:21 says, "You have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving an example for you to follow in his steps." (NASU). In other words, since Jesus made such an incredible sacrifice for us, our response should be to model the life that he lived.

The characteristics mentioned in this passage are attainable for each of us willing to develop a relationship with the Father and rely on His power to transform us. We can be wise and have understanding. We can give counsel and be powerful. We can know and fear God. We also can do the right thing, be fair with other people, and be peace makers. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 says, "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is,there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit." (NASU)

While it is remarkable to think that God knows I can become a person with the attributes described in Isaiah 11, I have to admit that it is also a little frightening to think about trying to acheive that level of character. It seems like a lot of pressure and even though God does the transforming, he does so by shaping and training me. Sometimes that can be uncomfortable or even painful and their are days I'm just not ready for that.

Thankfully God is faithful and patient. I can see His work in my life so far and continue to trust He knows whats best, even when I don't like or understand it.