Hope Lost and Found:
Insights on God’s Plan of Salvation, Revival and Restoration

Part 19 — The Issue of Truth

by Harvey L. Diamond

Speaking of the beginning, that's when man's problem relating with God all started! For, that's when man started questioning God's word, and listening to the lie of His adversary. Actually, in God's infinite wisdom, He knew man would yield to lies appealing to our fleshly weaknesses, and thus allowed for it. In fact, He used it to set the stage for His unfolding plan of salvation.

Right in the beginning of the Bible we see how Satan challenged the authenticity of the word God gave to Adam and Eve. Look at how he raised doubt, causing Adam and Eve to sin against God and stumble.

Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, "Has God indeed said, 'You shall not eat of every tree of the garden'?"
(Genesis 3:1)

They did doubt God's command and promise. But, God had a long range plan. This plan is woven through the book of Isaiah in a way that to some, has brought tremendous hope and joy, and a new life. To others, it has brought much confusion, bitterness, and contention.

That again, is how God works! He stirs us to discover truth and get to know Him. In doing so, He allows key sources to reflect key views. For, vision, or perspective, is a key element of faith.

See how this worked at a critical juncture for the children of Israel. In Exodus 14 we read the story of how God worked a specific plan to set the Egyptians up for failure (death); but Israel for victory (liberty). The children of Israel were positioned just before the Red Sea. As fear of the advancing Egyptian army struck the hearts of the people, God placed a cloud between the two camps.

As Scripture reveals,

"Thus it was a cloud and darkness to the one, and it gave light by night to the other." It was at this juncture that Moses said, "Do not be afraid. Stand and see the salvation of the LORD, which He will accomplish for you today."