"The Path of the Righteous One is Uprightness"

Jehovah provides salvation for those who turn to his light, and he guides their path as Isaiah next shows:  "The path of the righteous is uprightness.  You being upright, you will smooth out the very course of a righteous one. Yes, for the path of your judgments, O Jehovah, we have hoped in you.  For your name and for your memorial the desire of the soul has been."  (Isaiah 26:7, 8)  Jehovah is a righteous God, and those who worship him must observe his righteous standards.  When they do, Jehovah guides them, smoothing their course.  By heeding his guidance, these meek ones show that they hope in Jehovah and wholeheartedly cherish his name-his "memorial." -Exodus 3:15.

Isiah cherished Jehovah's name.  That is evident from his next words: "With my soul I have desired you in the night; yes, with my spirit within me I keep looking for you; because, when there are judgments from you for the earth, righteousness is what the inhabitants of the productive land will certainly learn."  (Isaiah 26:9) Isaiah desired Jehovah 'with his soul'-with his whole being.  Picture the prophet using the quiet times of the night to pray to Jehovah, expressing his deepest thoughts and ardently seeking Jehovah's guidance.  What  a fine example! Moreover, Isaiah learned righteousness from Jehovah's judgment acts.  In this, he reminds us of the need for constant vigilance, keeping alert to discern Jehovah's will. 

Next time: Some Choose the Darkness

The Watchtower, 2001