Isaiah 8 · Grade 4

A Sanctuary

Name Date

Read and Think

God told Isaiah to write on a large tablet, "For Maher Shalal Hash Baz," in front of two faithful witnesses. Then the prophetess bore Isaiah a son, and God told Isaiah to give him that name. Before the child could say "My father" or "My mother," the king of Assyria would carry away the riches of Damascus and Samaria.

God's people had refused the gentle waters of Shiloah that go softly. So the mighty waters of the River, the king of Assyria, would rise and reach even to the neck of Judah. Yet the nations would not win in the end: "Take counsel together, and it will be brought to nothing; speak the word, and it will not stand, for God is with us."

God warned Isaiah not to walk in the way of the people. "Don't fear their threats or be terrorized. Yahweh of Armies is who you must respect as holy." For those who trust him, God would be a sanctuary. Isaiah said, "I will wait for Yahweh, who hides his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him." He told the people to stop asking wizards and to turn to the law and the covenant.

Show What You Know

Who were witnesses when Isaiah wrote on the tablet?
What did the mighty waters of the River stand for?
Who did God say Isaiah must respect as holy?
What would God be for those who trust him?

Think About It

God told Isaiah not to fear what everyone else feared. What fears do people around you have, and how can trusting God help?
Isaiah chose to wait for God even when God seemed hidden. What helps you keep trusting God while you wait?

Memory Verse

“Yahweh of Armies is who you must respect as holy. He is the one you must fear. He is the one you must dread.”

Isaiah 8:13 (WEB)

Copy It

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for being my sanctuary. Help me . Amen.

Take It Home

For families: talk about these together.

What waters did the people refuse?
Who helps you stay close to God?