Comfort Amid Condemnation

 While these sobering words are still echoing in the ears of Isaiah's listeners, the tone of his message changes.  Threat of disaster gives way to a promise of blessings.  "Therefore Jehovah will keep in expectation of showing you favor, and therefore he will rise up to show you mercy.  For Jehovah is a God of judgment.  Happy are all those keeping in expectation of him."  (Isaiah 30:18)  What heartening words!  Jehovah is a compassionate Father who yearns to help his children.  He delights in showing mercy. -Psalm 103:13; Isaiah 55:7.

These reassuring words apply to the Jewish remnant who are mercifully allowed to survive the destruction of Jerusalem in 607 B.C.E. and to the few who return to the Promised Land in 537 B.C.E.  However, the prophet's words also comfort Christians today.  We are reminded that Jehovah will "rise up" in our behalf, bringing an end to this wicked world.  Faithful worshipers can be confident that Jehovah-"a God of judgment"-will not allow Satan's world to exist for one day longer than justice requires.  Therefore, "those keeping in expectation of him" have much reason to be happy.

Next time: Jehovah Comforts His People by Answering Prayers

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