Isaiah 8-9 (Lean on Christ)

Isaiah 8:6 — Forasmuch as this people refuseth the waters of Shiloah that go softly, and rejoice in Rezin and Remaliah's son;

Here Isaiah says that if the people of Israel refuse the waters of Shiloah, the soft waters, they will be overcome by the rapids of Assyria. There's a lot in this picture. First, these are the same waters that Christ sent the the blind man to wash away the clay from his eyes to be healed (John 9:7). Shiloah is also deeply connected to the word Shiloh, which is a prophetic title for Christ. The people are being told if they do not choose to be wash and repent, if they don't want the light yoke of Christ, the opposite is worse. Additionally, it can be seen as the water of Christ, the living water that when we drink we never thirst again. Shiloah means "sent", which is also symbolic of Christ; "hear I am, send me".

Isaiah 8:13 — Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.

In the previous verses Isaiah tells the people that all their alliances and counsels will bring them nothing. The strength of men is nothing. But trust in the Lord and, as the next verse says,"he shall be fit a sanctuary". Otherwise, He will be "a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel".

Isaiah 9:2 — The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.

The gospel is received by those who did not have it. I love the imagery of being in the land of the shadow of death. Because of the fall, we are all subject to death. It lingers just around the corner, it's shadow hovering to remind us it's there. However, because of the Atonement and Resurrection of Christ, death is not permanent, and it's shadow is repelled by the light of Christ and His victory over death.

Isaiah 9:4 — For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian.

Not only is the shadow dispersed, but the yoke is removed - the burden of being subject to physical and spiritual death, to remain forever without joy, has been lifted off our shoulders.

In between 9-13 we read that the people will see their afflictions and in pride day they will improve things - replace what is cheap with expensive materials and trust in their own strength and industry. Because of this, they are further smitten. We must always prioritize Christ, cast aside the idolatry of pride, and lean not unto our own understanding. If we do not learn to lean, and only on Christ, who is that sure foundation, then we fall. I love this imagery because the natural inclination off standing strong would be a sturdy stance, leaning doesn't sound strong. But as we lean on Christ, and not to our own understanding, we don't have to be strong because He is strong and will hold us up. That is the lesson of life - trust your Redeemer.