Endles Rejoicing for the Subjects of the Messiah

In joyful language Isaiah now describes the exultation of Jehovah's people over the fulfillment of his word:  "I shall thank you, O Jehovah, for although you got incensed at me, your anger gradually turned back, and you proceeded to comfort me.' "  (Isaiah 12:1)  Jehovah's discipline of his wayward people is severe.  But it accomplishes its purpose of healing the nation's relationship with him and of restoring pure worship.  Jehovah assures his faithful worshipers that ultimately he will save them.  No wonder they express appreciation!

the restored Israelites have their confidence in Jehovah completely confirmed, and they cry out: "Look! God is my salvation. I shall trust and be in no dread; for Jah Jehovah is my strength and my might, and he came to be the salvation of me.'  With exultation you people will be certain to draw water out of the springs of salvation."  (Isaiah 12:2, 3) The Hebrew word translated "might" in verse 2 appears as "praise" in the Septuagint version.  Worshipers break out in songs of praise over salvation from "Jah Jehovah."  As an abbreviated form of the name Jehovah,  "Jah" is used in the Bible to convey heightened feelings of praise and gratitude.  Using the expression "Jah Jehovah" -doubling the divine name-raises  the intensity of praise to God to an even higher level.

Genuine worshiper of Jehovah cannot keep their joy to themselves.  Isaiah foretells:  "In that day you will certainly say:  'Give thanks to Jehovah, you people!  Call upon his name. Make known among the peoples his dealings.  Make mention that his name is put on high. Make melody to Jehovah, for he has done surpassingly.  This is made known in all the earth.' "  (Isaiah 12:4, 5)   Since 1919, anointed Christians -later with the help of their "other sheep" compani9ons-have 'declared abroad the excellencies of the one that called them out of darkness into his wonderful light.'   They are "a chose race, . . .a holy nation" set apart for this purpose.  (John 10:16; 1 Peter 2:9)  Anointed ones declare that Jehovah's holy name is put on high and share in making it known  in all the earth.  They lead all of Jehovah's worshipers in rejoicing in his provision for their salvation. It is just as Isaiah  exclaims:  "Cry out shrilly and shout for joy, O you inhabitress of Zion, for great in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel!" (Isaiah 12:6)  The Holy One of Israel is Jehovah God himself.

Next time: Look to the Future With Confidence!

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, 2000