Peace and Profit

We see in “Peace and Profit” that God offers both provision and deep peace, but only when we follow His lead and live according to His Word.

“I am the LORD your God, who teaches you to benefit, who leads you in the way you should go. If only you had paid attention to My commandments! Then your well-being would have been like a river.”—Isaiah 48:17–18 NASB

God was not just interested in blessing His people in minor ways. He promised to teach them “to benefit” and to direct them “in the way [they] should go.” He wanted to give them overwhelming peace in their personal lives, their homes and families, and their relationships.

The Lord wanted them to have an intimate relationship with Him, as individuals and as a people. He wanted to send a wave of righteousness throughout their lives, impacting and blessing their families.

But they had to keep His commandments. This meant knowing His Word, obeying Him, and following His leading. He also reminded them, “There is no peace for the wicked” (v. 22). Yes, ungodly people may seem to enjoy pleasures and rewards, but they never can experience God’s deep inner peace, “which surpasses all comprehension” (Philippians 4:7).

When God’s people remembered the many ways He had provided for them, guided them, and protected them, they were to be filled with joy. And even when everything seemed hopeless, they needed to rejoice that He was with them and would come to their aid.

God promises these rewards to you! He will guide you “in the way you should go,” teach you how to profit, and give you this same peace and joy. Seek to know God’s Word. Obey Him. Trust Him. Seek first His Kingdom. He will give you His peace!

Reflection Question: Are you following God’s guidance or just hoping for His blessings?