Review of Isaiah By the Day: A New Devotional Translation by J. Alec Motyer

Isaiah by the Day: A New Devotional Translation by J. Alec Motyer is both a fresh translation of Isaiah and a daily devotional. Motyer, a distinguished Hebrew scholar, translates the text in Isaiah from the original Hebrew, placing notes in the margin to deal with difficult words and interpretations of words.

The translation itself is both eloquent, and clarifying, and the marginal notes make the text accesible to all. The beauty of this book are the Thoughts for the Day, drawn from that day’s reading in the text. These daily devotional readings come from a man with a heart for God and for His Word. They are truly challenging and God glorifying  — solid and substantial doctrinal teaching.

Here is a sample taken from the Thought for the day: Isaiah 44:24-45:7,

We can never over-emphasize or over-exalt the sovereignty of God. Isaiah depicts him as in full, operational charge of his world and of its every circumstance. This is our security; it is the pillow on which we lay our heads; it is why Psalm 121:2 found a place of repose in the God ‘who made heaven and earth’, for, as the Bible reveals the Creator, he not only originates everything but also sustains, and controls everything, and directs everything to his appointed goal: a God who is God indeed! (pg. 219)

This is no normal daily devotional. The commentary is edifying and comforting, but also corrective and challenging, and most of all centered on the Christ of Isaiah. The One who “was wounded for our transgressions…bruised for our iniquities.” (Isaiah 53:5)

Note: I received this book as a free review copy from Christian Focus. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Other Articles You'll Like: