What obstacles must be removed to prepare for God's presence in Isaiah 57:14? Setting the Context “And it will be said: ‘Build up, build up, prepare the way, remove every obstacle from the way of My people.’ ” (Isaiah 57:14) Isaiah pictures a road crew clearing rubble so the King can enter. In verse 15 the Lord explains why: He wants to “dwell with the contrite and humble in spirit.” So, what rubble has to go? Specific Obstacles to Remove • Idolatry and divided loyalties – Israel’s shrines under “every green tree” (vv. 5–8) symbolize any affection that competes with God (Exodus 20:3; 1 John 5:21). • Pride and self-reliance – God dwells “with the lowly in spirit” (v. 15). Pride puts a barricade across the highway (James 4:6). • Sexual immorality and secret sin – The “children of transgression” (v. 4) practiced impurity. Hidden sin drags boulders onto the path (Ephesians 5:3). • Injustice and hardheartedness – Isaiah often links true worship with caring for the oppressed (Isaiah 58:6-10; Micah 6:8). Cruelty and indifference are roadblocks. • Empty religion and hypocrisy – Ritual without repentance is useless (Isaiah 1:13-17; Matthew 15:8). It’s spiritual gravel underfoot. • Unbelief and stubborn refusal to repent – “There is no peace for the wicked” (v. 21). Unbelief keeps the barricade up (Hebrews 3:12-13). Why These Obstacles Matter • They obscure God’s glory, making Him seem distant. • They poison fellowship with other believers (1 John 1:6-7). • They rob us of peace, the very blessing God longs to give (Isaiah 57:19). Practical Steps for Clearing the Way • Honest confession—name the rubble (1 John 1:9). • Renounce idols—remove and destroy whatever competes (Acts 19:19). • Humble yourself—fasting, worship, and submission (Psalm 51:17). • Pursue holiness—replace impurity with righteousness (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Practice justice—act generously toward the vulnerable (James 1:27). • Cultivate faith—immerse yourself in the Word, believe His promises (Romans 10:17). Encouraging Promises Once the Way Is Clear • God revives “the spirit of the lowly” (Isaiah 57:15). • He heals and restores (Isaiah 57:18-19). • His presence brings fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). • The highway becomes a path of holiness where “the redeemed will walk” (Isaiah 35:8-10). Clear the obstacles, and the King will gladly enter. |
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