Conclusion of The Promise of a Secure Future

How far-reaching will the promised peace and security be?  Jehovah concludes this portion of the prophecy:  " 'The wolf and the lamb themselves will feed as one, and the lion will eat straw just like the bull; and as for the serpent, his food will be dust. They will do no harm nor cause any ruin in all my holy mountain,' Jehovah has said." (Isaiah 65:25)  When the faithful Jewish remnant return to their homeland, they will be under Jehovah's care.  A lion will, in effect,, eat straw like a bull, for the lion will do no harm to the Jews or their domestic animals.  This promise is sure, for it concludes with the words, "Jehovah has said."  and his word always comes true! -Isaiah 55:10, 11.

Jehovah's words are finding a thrilling fulfillment among true worshipers today.  Since 1919, God has blessed the spiritual land of his people, transforming it into a spiritual paradise. Those coming into this spiritual paradise make remarkable changes in their lives.  (Ephesians 4:22-24)  With the help of God's spirit, individuals who at one time had beastlike personalities-who perhaps exploited or otherwise victimized their fellowman-make  progress in taming undesirable traits. As a result, they enjoy peace and unity of worship with fellow believers.  The blessings no enjoyed by Jehovah's people in their spiritual paradise will extend into the physical Paradise, where the peace prevailing among humans will be matched by peace with the animals.  We can be sure that in God's due time, his original commission to mankind will be properly carried out:  "Subdue [the earth], and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth." -Genesis 1:28.

How grateful we are for Jehovah's promise to create "new heavens and a new earth"!  That promise had a fulfillment in 537 B.C.E. and is having further fulfillment today.  These two fulfillments point the way to a glorious future for obedient mankind.  Jehovah has kindly given us, through Isaiah's prophecy, a glimpse of what he has  in store for those who love him.  Truly, we have every reason to heed Jehovah's words: "Be joyful forever in what I am creating"! -Isaiah 65:18.

Next time: Jehovah Blesses Pure Worship, Chapter Twenty-Seven

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