Hope for Those Who Belong to Jehovah

Chapter 44 begins on a positive note with a reminder that Israel has been chosen by God, separated from the surrounding nations to become his servant.  The prophecy says:  "Now listen, O Jacob my servant, and you, O Israel, whom I have chosen.  This is what  Jehovah has said,  your Maker and your Former, who kept helping you even from the belly, 'Do not be afraid, O my servant Jacob, and you, Jeshurun,  whom I have chosen.' " (Isaiah 44:1, 2) Jehovah has cared for Israel from its mother's womb, as it were, ever since Israel became a nation after coming out of Egypt.  He calls his people collectively "Jeshurun,"  meaning "Upright One," a title expressing affection and tenderness.  The name is also a reminder  that the Israelites must remain upright, which they have often failed to do.

How pleasant and refreshing are Jehovah's next words!  He says:  "I shall pour out water upon the thirsty  one, and trickling streams upon the dry place.  I shall pour  out my spirit upon your seed, and my blessing upon your descendants.  And they will certainly  spring up as among the green grass, like poplars by the water ditches."  (Isaiah 44L3, 4) Even in hot, dry country, stands of trees can flourish by water sources.  When Jehovah provides his life-giving waters of truth and pours out his holy spirit, Israel will flourish mightily, like trees alongside irrigation canals.  (Psalm 1:3; Jeremiah 17:7, 8)  Jehovah will give his people the strength to carry out their role as witnesses to his Godship.

One result of this outpouring of holy spirit will be a renewed appreciation by some individuals of Israel's relationship with Jehovah.  Thus, we read:  "This will one say: 'I belong to Jehovah.' And that one will call himself by the name of Jacob, and another will write upon his hand: 'Belonging to Jehovah.'  And by the name of Israel one will betitle himself."  (Isaiah 44:5) Yes, there will b honor in carrying the name of Jehovah, for he will be seen to be the only true God.

Next time: A Challenge to the God's

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, Volume II, 2001