Isaiah 1 Devotional: A Call to Repentance

As I begin studying the book of Isaiah, I plan to write a short devotional each morning to stay accountable and reflect on God's Word.

Isaiah 1 hits close to home. Raised by God-fearing parents and nurtured in the church, I still find myself straying, forgetting who God is. I’m no better than others; I can’t point fingers. Only by God’s grace can I believe, repent, and find salvation through Christ.

This chapter speaks powerfully to nations like America, founded on Christian principles but now marked by rebellion. Isaiah describes a people spiritually sick, their cities burned, their land devoured by foreigners, and their defenses crumbling—eerily reminiscent of Sodom and Gomorrah. Our Christian holidays, once sacred, have become vain, even an abomination to God. Our wealth—symbolized by silver—has turned to worthless dross. Our finest offerings, like wine, are diluted with water. Leaders have become rebels, chasing bribes and personal gain.

Yet God’s call is clear: “Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow” (Isaiah 1:16-17). Those who forsake the Lord will face judgment, but those who repent will be declared righteous through the saving work of Christ.

Reflection: Like Judah, I must examine my heart. Where have I turned from God’s ways? How can I seek justice and show mercy today? Let’s heed Isaiah’s warning, turn back to God, and trust in His redemptive grace.