Naked!

What?

Did I read that correctly?

Okay, I’ve read the bible in its entirety a couple of times, but I don’t remember this event.

I hope this entry encourages you to explore God’s word and discover many “what?” moments for yourself.

While reading through the book of Isaiah (more on that later), I came across this nugget of information about the author of said book in the bible:

The Lord told Isaiah son of Amoz, “Take off the burlap you have been wearing, and remove your sandals.” Isaiah did as he was told and walked around naked and barefoot. Then the Lord said, “My servant Isaiah has been walking around naked and barefoot for the last three years. Isaiah 20:2-3a

What? Of course, I am imagining this middle-aged man, walking around the streets, revealing the word of the Lord to others, all while completely exposed. One can’t help but either laugh or be disgusted by the imagery. Yet, when you explore the bible a little more, via commentaries, you discover that he may not have been completely naked yet wore a loincloth. 

According to my Life Application Study Bible notes, God was using Isaiah to demonstrate the humiliation that Egypt and Ethiopia would experience at the hands of Assyria.  But the message was really for Judah: Don’t put your trust in foreign governments, or you will experience this kind of shame from your captors.

God also was illustrating, like He does throughout the entire bible, how He is patient and gracious to us all. He doesn’t want anyone to go to hell.

This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. 1 Timothy 2:3-4

The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. 2 Peter 3:9 

Friend, God IS patient and gracious. If you don’t have a personal relationship with Christ, I pray that you will repent today, know The Truth, and live an abundant life with Him.

Thank you to all those pastors out there for keeping your clothes on! Keep sharing God’s word in a decent manner.

Well, did those verses capture your attention as it did mine?

I pray that you will dive into the bible and explore all that God has for you.

Blessings to you and yours,

Stephanie

Featured Photo: I didn’t think it would be appropriate to post a pic of an exposed man, so…how about this cutie, my great nephew.

 Isaiah 20:2 Commentaries: at that time the LORD spoke through Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, “Go and loosen the sackcloth from your hips and take your shoes off your feet.” And he did so, going naked and barefoot. (biblehub.com)

Enduring Word Bible Commentary Isaiah Chapter 20

Study Guide for Isaiah 20 by David Guzik (blueletterbible.org)