I decide to use this scripture as a Faith Focus because it’s intriguing to me that God would invite Ahaz to ask for a sign.
So often, we are discouraged from doubting God or questioning his plans or intentions…. as if to do so makes us horrible (and sinful) people.
It implies that he (God) understands that Ahaz might doubt God’s inentions, and and that he wants additional confirmation. God not only expects it (probably because he is all-knowing), but seemed to invite it. And since we are just as human as Ahaz, doesn’t it reason that God would not resent (or condemn) our questions or doubt.
10 Again the Lord spoke to Ahaz, 11 “Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights.” – Isaiah 7:10-11
The reality is that God invited Ahaz to ask him for a sign- he welcomed Ahaz’s unspoken desire for an assurance of God’s help.
God is always about connection. I am constantly being reminded how much he wants connection with all his children. After all, a loving father generally does not discourage his children from seeking reassurance of his presence and protection. I almost feel like God is irritated that Ahaz won’t ask.
Nonetheless, Ahaz refuses. He will NOT ask God for a sign because he wants to maintain the facade of appearing religious (or is it faith-filled?). He says that he will not put God to the test (Isaiah 7:12).
However, God promises to give one. God reassures Ahaz that he is with Judah.
I like to return to this scripture whenever I need to assuage any guilt I feel for wanting evidence, assurance or confirmation of God’s presence in my life.
<insert heavy sigh> I have to constantly remind myself that God welcomes my questions, and I tell myself it is because questions directed at him mean I am in his presence, and he wants us in his presence.
So I say to you the same things I say to myself….
“Just ask him!”
