Oaks of Righteousness

God doesn’t just speak in the obvious, such as dreams, visions, and that still small voice, but also in things in the natural. On Thanksgiving night, I was the only one up, meditating on some things. It was getting late, and I decided it was time for bed. The Holy Spirit whispered, “Stay with me for a while in this quiet place.” Okay, Lord! As I grabbed a pillow and lay back on my sofa, I looked up and took notice of my oak tree print hanging above my sofa. I knew immediately the Lord wanted to minister to me in Isaiah 61. Oak trees represent strength, endurance, stability, and beauty. They also . have a deep-rooted system that helps anchor them through difficult storms of life. You’re probably thinking right now, I don’t feel like a mighty tree of righteousness. , Well, in our own strength, we’re not. Have you been in a season where you feel beaten down, defeated? Has hope been deferred, or have you lost all hope? Do you feel like your spiritual life is dead? Are you mentally drained? Okay, good, because I have some hope for you! Isaiah 61 uses metaphors to describe God’s restorative work. Isaiah 61 paints a picture of what happens when God’s grace fills our lives. Key metaphors in l Isaiah 61 include beauty for ashes: God replacing grief and despair with beauty, a crown, and joy. Rebuilding and hope: rebuilding cities and turning wastelands into thriving, fertile places. Favor: Favor of the Lord is upon His people. Garment of praise: removing the sackcloth (spirit of despair) to worship. Bridegroom/bride: marriage, God’s relationship with His people. Oaks of righteousness: the oppressed will become oaks of righteousness, which are sturdy and can withstand the storms of life. God is transforming us into mighty Oaks of Righteousness. He replaces our brokenness with beauty, our mourning with joy, and our heaviness with praise.