When I go for a physical exam this week the doctor will check my cholesterol. Heart disease runs in my family, so if it’s high I pay attention. At that point I want reality, not illusions. I need to change my behavior. Heeding the doctor’s warning saves me from a shortened or incapacitated life.

The children of Israel failed their own exam by chasing after pleasure and demonic gods. They ignored warning after warning from the Lord. They told the prophets: Do not prophesy to us what is right; speak to us smooth things, prophesy illusions, leave the way, turn aside from the path, let us hear no more about the Holy One of Israel.

I prefer to hear smooth things from the Lord. Nothing too challenging or upsetting, just mild, soothing words. Indeed, the Bible carries comfort and peace and I go there often for that purpose. But the Word of God also carries a bite. I need to hear from the Holy One of Israel.

Truth often hurts, but reality is my friend. The honesty of Scripture saves me from a weak and incapacitated life. The words of the Lord carry rough edges, but their difficulty going down draws me closer to Him and makes me a better man.

Isaiah 30:9-11

Photo by Julia Taubitz