"They Shook Like Trees in the Wind" Isaiah 7-8; Ephesians 2

Isaiah 7:2  "When the Davidic government learned that Aram had joined forces with Ephraim (that is, Israel), Ahaz and his people were badly shaken. They shook like trees in the wind."  What they feared wasn't even legitimate.  Why am I shaking like a tree in the wind?  What do I fear?  What is my terror?

Isaiah 7:10 - 12  "Ask for a sign from your God. Ask anything. Be extravagant. Ask for the moon!"  But Ahaz said, "I'd never do that. I'd never make demands like that on God!"  Ahaz almost missed hearing the prophecy of Jesus.  I love Isaiah 7: 14 - the Master is going to give you a sign anyway.  God, would you give us this day what we are missing?  God-With-Us.

Isaiah 8:10   "All your talk is mere talk, empty words, because when all is said and done, the last word is Immanuel—God-With-Us."  Am I really convinced that God is with me in this?

Isaiah 8:16  While I wait for God as long as he remains in hiding, while I wait and hope for Him, I stand my ground and hope.  In the midst of confusion, will you wait in hope with me?  Will you redefine your problems as God-With-Us on a Journey---not solutions for our suffering.  God-With-Us in His Providence has allowed what you face today.  Providential Suffering.  Face the silence and wait in hope with me. 

PHOTO:  THIS GIRL! She is not shaking in the wind.  She can snowboard down a hill landing into a metal sign and laugh wholeheartedly. She can ride the highest of roller coasters with no fear.