Jehovah God Has Mercy on a Remnant, Chapter Six

A VIOLENT storm descends upon a densely populated region.  Strong winds, torrential rains, and heavy flooding cut a wide swath through the land, destroying homes, damaging crops, and claiming lives.  But soon the storm passes, and in its aftermath a period of calm sets in.  For those who have survived, it is a time of restoration and rebuilding.

The prophet Isaiah foretells something similar concerning Judah and Jerusalem.  The storm clouds of divine judgment are moving ominously closer - and  with good reason!  The guilt of the nation is heavy. Both the rulers and the people have filled the land with injustice and bloodshed.  Through Isaiah, Jehovah lays bare  Judah's guilt and warns that He will execute judgment on that delinquent nation.  (Isaiah 3:25)  The land of Judah will be left completely desolate in the wake of this storm.  That prospect must sadden Isaiah.

But there is good news!  The storm of Jehovah's righteous judgment will pass, and a remnant will survive.  Yes, Jehovah's judgment of Judah will be tempered with  mercy!  Isaiah's message recorded at Isaiah  4:2-6 looks ahead to this blessed time.  It is as if the sun breaks out from behind the clouds; the scene shifts from the sights and sounds of judgment-described  at Isaiah 2:6 -4:1-to a beautifully renewed land and  people. 

Isaiah's prophecy regarding the restoration of a remnant and their subsequent security also finds a fulfillment in our time -"the final part of the days."  (Isaiah 2:2-4)  Let us discuss  this timely message, for not only does it have prophetic significance but it also teaches us about Jehovah's mercy and how we as individuals might receive it.

Next time: 'The Sprouting of Jehovah'

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind