EXEGESIS:
THE CONTEXT:
In this chapter, Yahweh calls the prophet to address the problem of false religious observance. While this ostensibly has to do with two religious disciplines, fasting (vv. 3-12) and Sabbath observance (vv. 13-14), those are only the manifesting problems rather than the root problem.
The root problem is people who observe spiritual disciplines for selfish reasons (to gain God’s blessings) while ignoring the hunger, poverty, homelessness, and nakedness of those in need.
The root solution is true devotion to God, which grows naturally out of love for God. People who love God will worship him for the sake of honoring rather than manipulating him. And if we love God, we will also love those whom God loves—our neighbors (broadly defined—see Luke 10:25-37, the Parable of the Good Samaritan). That love for God and neighbor will be manifested by taking concrete steps to care for those in need (those who are hungry, poor, homeless, naked, or otherwise in need).
This chapter or portions thereof occurs three times in the common lectionary:
• Epiphany 5A, Isaiah 58:1-9a, (9b-12)
• Ash Wednesday ABC, Isaiah 58:1-12
• Proper 16C, Isaiah 58:9b-14
The chapter has an essential unity, so I have chosen to treat the chapter only once but in its entirety. Not only is that easier administratively, but it is best if the preacher who sets out to preach on particular verses first understands the whole chapter.
Oswalt notes a three part pattern (true religion, the people’s inability to keep true religion, and God’s power to heal the people) that occurred first in 56:1—57:21 and recurs in 58:1—59:21. “True religion is depicted in 58:1-14; the people’s failure is spoken of in 59:1-15a; and God’s action on his people’s behalf is portrayed in 59:15b-21” (Oswalt, 493).
ISAIAH 58:1-2. DECLARE TO MY PEOPLE THEIR DISOBEDIENCE
1“Cry aloud (Hebrew: bega·ron qera’—call with the throat), don’t spare,
lift up your voice like a trumpet (Hebrew: so·par’), and declare to my people
their disobedience, and to the house of Jacob their sins. 2Yet they seek me daily,
and delight to know my ways: as a nation that did righteousness, and didn’t forsake the ordinance of their God, they ask of me righteous judgments; they delight to draw near to God.”
“Cry aloud, don’t spare, lift up your voice like a trumpet!” (so∙par’) (v. 1a). If the prophet is to get the people’s attention, Yahweh must first get the prophet’s attention. This charge should do it! Yahweh calls the prophet to shout—to “call with the throat,” which means to call with full voice.
He is to lift up his voice like a trumpet (so∙par’). The so∙par’ is a ram’s horn, an instrument that could be used rather like a bugle to call soldiers to assembly or to battle. It could be used to call people to special occasions, such as the enthronement of a king. Priests used trumpets in worship (2 Chronicles 5:12; 7:6; Ezra 3:10; Nehemiah 12:35, 41). Blowing a trumpet was the best way to get people’s attention
“and declare to my people their disobedience, and to the house of Jacob their sins” (v. 1b). These two phrases are an example of parallelism, a pattern which we see repeated throughout these verses. They express the same idea twice, but in different words.
The purpose of getting people’s attention is to announce their rebellion—to make them aware of their sins. They truly don’t understand the scope of their sins. They are in the dark regarding the problem, so they certainly don’t have a clue as to the remedy (see also Micah 3:8).
“Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways” (v. 2a). In verse 1b, Yahweh said that these people were rebels and sinners. Now Yahweh says that these people “seek me daily, and delight to know my ways,” a phrase that makes them sound as if they are the epitome of faithfulness. Verse 2b will resolve this apparent inconsistency.
“as a nation that did righteousness, and didn’t forsake the ordinance of their God“ (v. 2b). Next, Yahweh adds “as” or “as if”—making it clear that the faithfulness of these people is not real. They have not been faithful. They have failed the righteousness test. They have forsaken obedience to God’s laws.
This will come as a surprise to these people. They think that they have been faithful. They imagine that their fasting and Sabbath-keeping have pleased God. What they are about to learn is that God considers them to have been majoring in minors—to have been faithfully keeping the lesser parts of the law while neglecting (in Jesus’ later words to the scribes and Pharisees) “the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faith” (Matthew 23:23). It isn’t that the lesser requirements of the law (fasting, Sabbath-keeping, tithing, etc.) are unimportant. Jesus will later tell the scribes and Pharisees that they should have observed the lesser requirements “and not to have left the other undone” (Matthew 23:23).
“they ask of me righteous judgments; they delight to draw near to God” (v. 2c). The irony is that these unrighteous people are asking God for “righteous judgments.” They fail to understand that, if God were to render “righteous judgments,” he would condemn rather than vindicate them.
The same problem continues today. Most (perhaps all) who think themselves righteous are simply self-righteous—i.e., have pronounced themselves righteous when, in fact, they are not. We think of fundamentalists as being guilty of this sin of self-righteousness—of majoring in minors—of fulfilling the lesser Christian duties while ignoring the weightier duties. However, while making that sort of judgment, we assume a stance of morally superiority and, in the process, become self-righteousness ourselves. We would do better to acknowledge that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23)—and that, like Paul, we are foremost among sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). Then we will appeal to God, not for “righteous judgments,” but for mercy.
ISAIAH 58:3-4. WHY HAVE WE FASTED, AND YOU DON’T SEE?
3“‘Why have we fasted,’ say they, ‘and you don’t see? Why have we afflicted our soul, and you take no knowledge?’ Behold, in the day of your fast you find pleasure, and exact all your labors. 4Behold, you fast for strife and contention, and to strike with the fist of wickedness: you don’t fast this day so as to make your voice to be heard on high.”
“‘Why have we fasted,’ say they, ‘and you don’t see? Why have we afflicted our soul, and you take no knowledge?'” (v. 3a). This is the people’s complaint. They have fasted (abstained from food to demonstrate their repentance and to honor God), but God has failed to reward their devotion. In their minds, it should be a quid pro quo proposition (a situation in which they can give something in order to receive something). If they comply with their obligation to fast, then God should return the favor by conferring blessings on them.
In other words, they believe that fasting establishes an obligation that God is duty-bound to meet. If that is true, it puts them in a position where they can pull strings and obligate God to jump. With regard to power, that would reverse the positions of the creator and the one who was created.
However, their assumption is wrong on at least two points. First, God is God and they are God’s creation. God has the right as creator to impose obligations on them, but they have no right as the creation to impose obligations on God. Second, their fasting is but a tiny part of their religious obligation (Jewish law, after all, requires fasting only on the Day of Atonement), and faithfulness in fasting counts for little if they fail to observe the rest of their religious obligations—which, in fact, is the case.
Quid pro quo theology continues to afflict us today. Preachers are tempted to tell people that God will bless them financially if they tithe, and people are tempted to hope that God will honor that promise. Many prayers follow the model, “If you will do this, God, I will do that.” We would do better to pray, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner” (Luke 18:13).
“Behold, in the day of your fast you find pleasure” (v. 3b). The people have stated their complaint—God has ignored their fasting. Now God states his complaint—as an act of repentance or devotion, their fasting is fatally flawed. They have not fasted to honor God, but have instead fasted for selfish reasons. They have assumed that God would reward their fasting, so they fasted to earn the reward. Their purpose was not to give devotion to God but to gain a blessing from God. Their fasting, therefore, was exactly the opposite of genuine fasting. Rather than an act of self-denial, it was a self-centered grasping for reward. Their fasting was not an act of humility but of pride. There is no virtue in that kind of selfishness, and they cannot expect a reward.
“and exact all your labors” (v. 3c). Furthermore—this deserves emphasis—FURTHERMORE, these people have practiced their flawed religious devotions WHILE AT THE SAME TIME OPPRESSING THEIR WORKERS! Haven’t they understood ANYTHING!
Jewish law is replete with expressions of God’s concern for widows, orphans, and others in need. It requires the Jewish people to provide for people in need (Exodus 22:22-24; Leviticus 25:35-43; Deuteronomy 10:18; 15:7-18; 16:11-14; 24:17-21; 27:19). The law even forbids oppression of aliens dwelling in their midst (Exodus 22:21, 23:9, 12; Leviticus 19:33-34). How, then, can these people imagine that they can obtain a reward for fasting (a minor observance) while at the same time oppressing their workers (a major transgression)?
“Behold, you fast for strife and contention, and to strike with the fist of wickedness” (v. 4a). The meaning of these words is uncertain, but perhaps they were vying for top honors in fasting and their competition led to fisticuffs. “The fasting of the hypocrites does not prepare their mind for prayer to God but produces contention and strife. Instead of the heart looking to God, the fasters became irritable and upset” (Young 418).
While it seems hard to imagine that an act of devotion would lead to violence, I read a news story about two men who got into an argument about which knew the Bible better. They argued for a time, and then one of them went away and came back armed with a gun. He shot and killed the other man. True story!
Or consider the heated discussions of abortion or homosexuality or other hot-button issues at our denominational conferences. Is it beyond imagining that such discussions could lead to violence?
“you don’t fast this day so as to make your voice to be heard on high” (v. 4b). God will not honor their flawed fasting.
ISAIAH 58:5-9a. IS SUCH THE FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN?
5“Is such the fast that I have chosen? The day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head as a rush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to Yahweh?
6Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to release the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? 7Isn’t it to distribute your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor who are cast out to your house? When you see the naked, that you cover him; and that you not hide yourself from your own flesh?
8Then your light shall break forth as the morning, and your healing shall spring forth speedily; and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of Yahweh shall be your rear guard.
9aThen you shall call, and Yahweh will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.'”
“Is such the fast that I have chosen? the day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head as a rush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and an acceptable day to Yahweh?” (v. 5). God asks if they think that he desires their self-serving actions. Do they imagine that it is an act of humility to manipulate God? Do they believe that their external observances (bowing the head and dressing in sackcloth and ashes) please God? This verse doesn’t go so far as to say that these actions are unacceptable to God, but God’s questions clearly expect a “No!” answer.
“Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to release the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke?” (v. 6). In verse 5, God asked the people what they thought, and posed his questions to convey disapproval of their actions. Now he tells them clearly what he thinks—what he wants. God’s vision has four parts, but all four have to do with establishing freedom for those who are suffering injustice or oppression or bondage.
This is a far grander vision than fasting or sackcloth and ashes. It demands a great deal more of God’s people than they have understood until this moment. It is easy to go without food for a day or to dress in humble attire—especially if we think that we will receive a blessing from God for doing so. It is much more difficult to remedy injustice—to give freedom to those whom we have oppressed—to break yokes that bind people to servitude.
Just consider for a moment how difficult it would have been for a slave-owner in the South to free his slaves prior to the Civil War. How could he compete with his neighbors who continued to use slave labor? How could he survive their animosity when accused of endangering their way of life? Such action would have been far from easy, but God calls us to that kind of radical justice. There is a great deal of injustice and oppression in our world today—far more than any one of us can resolve. However, if every Christian took injustice and oppression seriously, God would enable us to make a mighty dent in the problem.
“Isn’t it to distribute your bread to the hungry, and that you bring the poor who are cast out to your house? When you see the naked, that you cover him” (v. 7a). God continues sharing his vision. Instead of emphasizing fasting (denying themselves bread) as an act of religious discipline, God emphasizes sharing their bread with those who are hungry. They are to house the homeless and to provide clothing to cover those who are naked.
“and that you not hide yourself from your own flesh?” (v. 7b). We should not cross to the other side of the street to avoid relatives (or others) who might ask us for help.
“Then your light shall break forth as the morning, and your healing shall spring forth speedily; and your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of Yahweh shall be your rear guard” (v. 8). First God made it clear that the people’s fasting was flawed and was therefore unsatisfactory (vv. 3-5). Then God made it clear what was needed (vv. 6-7). Now God outlines what the people can expect if they do, indeed, remedy injustice and free the oppressed and feed the hungry:
• First, they can expect that “light shall break forth as the morning.” To really appreciate light, one must have stumbled through darkness. These people have done plenty of that during their long exile.
• Second, they can expect healing—quick healing.
• Third, they can expect that “your righteousness shall go before you” and “the glory of Yahweh shall be your rear guard.” It is a promise of protection front and rear, and is reminiscent of the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night that led the Israelites on their wilderness journey—but switched to their rear to protect them from the Egyptian army when it pursued them (Exodus 13:21-22; 14:19-20).
With God as our guard, we need fear no enemy. Or, as Paul the Apostle will later say, “If God is for us, who is against us?” (Romans 8:31).
“Then you shall call, and Yahweh will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.'” (v. 9a). Finally, and most importantly, if these people will establish justice and set the oppressed free and feed the hungry, God will answer their prayers for help. If they help others, God will help them.
ISAIAH 58:9b-12. IF YOU DRAW OUT YOUR SOUL TO THE HUNGRY
9b“If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking wickedly; 10and if you draw out your soul (Hebrew: nap·se·ka) to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul: then your light shall rise in darkness, and your obscurity be as the noonday; 11and Yahweh will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in dry places, and make strong your bones; and you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters don’t fail. 12Those who shall be of you shall build the old waste places; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.”
“If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking wickedly” (v. 9b). This is the first “if” statement. We will find another “if” statement in verse 10a. Verses 9b and 10a, then, outline what God wants them to do. Verses 10b and 11 provide the “then” statement, outlining what these people can expect if they live up to God’s expectations.
First, God calls these people to remedy three facets of unjust or oppressive behavior. The first remedy is to remove the yoke of bondage from those who are not free. The second is to stop finger-pointing, which could be either a gesture of contempt (Muilenburg, 682) or a way of casting blame. The third is to stop speaking evil of others.
“and if you draw out your soul (nap·se·ka—your soul) to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul”(v. 10a). This is the second “if” statement. God expects these people to feed the hungry and to satisfy the needs of the afflicted. They are not only to feed the hungry, but are also to give them nap·se·ka—their souls—we would say “their hearts.” Passionless giving-at-a-distance isn’t enough!
“then your light shall rise in darkness, and your obscurity be as the noonday” (v. 10b). This is the beginning of the “then” statement—God’s promises. If the people do what God outlined in the two “if” statements (vv. 9b and 10a), then they can expect that light will dispel their darkness.
Light is a metaphor for many positive things, such as blessings (Psalm 112:4; Isaiah 9:2) and the word of God (Psalm 43:3; 119:105), and God (Psalm 27:1). Darkness is a metaphor for negative things, such as wickedness (1 Samuel 2:9), imprisonment (Psalm 107:10) and death (Ecclesiastes 11:8). God promises those who are righteous that light will drive out their darkness and the noonday sun will drive out their gloom.
“and Yahweh will guide you continually, and satisfy your soul in dry places, and make strong your bones; and you shall be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters don’t fail”(v. 11). This verse continues the list of blessings promised to the righteous. It includes God’s guidance, and promises that the righteous will have their needs met even in parched places—a metaphor for any kind of difficult place in life. Making one’s bones strong is a metaphor for good health. Water is mentioned three times as a metaphor for prosperity. This prosperity, however, is not grasping, selfish prosperity, but prosperity akin to a watered garden that furnishes food for many or a spring of water that serves many. Unfailing waters is a metaphor for unending prosperity.
“Those who shall be of you shall build the old waste places; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in” (v. 12). This verse further continues the list of blessings promised to the righteous. This set of blessings has to do with restoring ruins and foundations and streets as well as repairing breaches. These have an immediate application to these people who need to rebuild Jerusalem. God raised up Cyrus to give them freedom to return to Jerusalem, but they have their work cut out for them. This set of promises is that they will be equal to the task.
ISAIAH 58:13-14. IF YOU TURN AWAY YOUR FOOT FROM THE SABBATH
13“If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, and the holy of Yahweh honorable; and shall honor it, not doing your own ways, nor finding your own pleasure, nor speaking your own words: 14then you shall delight yourself in Yahweh; and I will make you to ride on the high places of the earth; and I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father:” for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken it.
“‘If you turn away your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, and the holy of Yahweh honorable; and shall honor it, not doing your own ways, nor finding your own pleasure, nor speaking your own words'” (v. 13). The religious observance here is Sabbath observance rather than fasting, but the same principle applies. Just as people tried to place God under obligation by fasting, so also they have tried to place God under obligation by Sabbath observance. Their observance has not grown out of genuine devotion to God, but has instead been a calculated effort to obtain blessings from God.
This verse, then, has another “if” statement that lays out for them what God wants from them. God wants them to observe the Sabbath as a holy day and not as a selfish attempt to procure something from God.
“‘then you shall delight yourself in Yahweh; and I will make you to ride on the high places of the earth; and I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father:’ for the mouth of Yahweh has spoken it” (v. 14). This is the “then” statement that tells them what they can expect if they will fulfill the “if” clause of verse 13. They will not fear the Lord, but will take delight in the Lord’s presence. They will enjoy a thrilling ride through life, and will experience the heritage of Jacob.
The danger is that we might hear God’s promises as another form of works righteousness, so that doing justice would replace fasting as a way of earning rewards from God.
But the blessings that God will bestow on those who manifest these Godly behaviors includes such things as more functional communities and clear consciences.
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS are from the World English Bible (WEB), a public domain (no copyright) modern English translation of the Holy Bible. The World English Bible is based on the American Standard Version (ASV) of the Bible, the Biblia Hebraica Stutgartensa Old Testament, and the Greek Majority Text New Testament. The ASV, which is also in the public domain due to expired copyrights, was a very good translation, but included many archaic words (hast, shineth, etc.), which the WEB has updated.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
Blenkinsopp, Joseph, The Anchor Bible: Isaiah 56-66, Vol. 19B (New York: Doubleday, 2003)
Brueggemann, Walter; Cousar, Charles B.; Gaventa, Beverly R.; and Newsome, James D., Texts for Preaching: A Lectionary Commentary Based on the NRSV — Year A (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 1995)
Brueggemann, Walter, Westminster Bible Companion: Isaiah 40-66 (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 1998)
Hanson, Paul D., Interpretation Commentary: Isaiah 40-66, (Louisville: John Knox Press, 1995)
Holladay, William, Unbound by Time: Isaiah Still Speaks (Cambridge, Massachusetts: Cowley Publications, 2002)
Kaiser, Otto, The Old Testament Library: Isaiah, (Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1983)
McCann, J. Clinton, in Van Harn, Roger (ed.), The Lectionary Commentary: Theological Exegesis for Sunday’s Text. The First Readings: The Old Testament and Acts (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2001)
Muilenburg, James (Introduction and Exegesis of Isaiah 40-66); and Coffin, Henry Sloane (Exposition of Isaiah 40-66), The Interpreter’s Bible: Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Vol. 5 (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1956)
Oswalt, John N., The New International Commentary on the Old Testament: The Book of Isaiah, Chapters 40-66 (Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1998)
Seitz, Christopher R., The New Interpreters Bible: Isaiah, Vol. VI (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 2001)
Tucker, Gene M. in Craddock, Fred B.; Hayes, John H.; Holladay, Carl R.; Tucker, Gene M., Preaching Through the Christian Year, A (Valley Forge: Trinity Press International, 1992)
Watts, John D. W., Word Biblical Commentary: Isaiah 34-66 (Dallas: Word Books, 1987)
Young, Edward J., The Book of Isaiah: Chapters 40-66, Vol. 3 (Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1972)
Copyright 2007, 2008, 2010, Richard Niell Donovan
FAQs
What does Isaiah 58 teach us? ›
“The Lord promises not only the power to overcome all of our sins but also light, health, and righteousness in our lives. And, just as with the children of Israel, He promises that His glory will surround and protect us” (“Fasting with Power,” Ensign, April 2009, 64, 66).
What is the commentary on Isaiah 58 14? ›In a word, he means that the people take no delight in God, because they provoke him, and do not obey his will; for if we framed our life in obedience to God, we should be his delight, and, on the other hand, he would be our delight.
What is Isaiah 58 1 through 14? ›“Cry aloud, spare not; Lift up your voice like a trumpet; Tell My people their transgression, And the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, And delight to know My ways, As a nation that did righteousness, And did not forsake the ordinance of their God.
What is the commentary on Isaiah 58 13 14? ›This verse is saying that, if we will invest ourselves as we should in God's holy day - if we will turn from our own affairs on His day, call His day a delight and an honor, and actively seek to honor His day - then the Lord Himself will grow increasingly to be our delight!
What is the meaning of Isaiah 58 1 12? ›It means stop pointing the finger and speaking evil of others. It means satisfying the needs of the afflicted. Injustice, oppression, hunger, homelessness, poverty, nakedness, blame and slander are God's concerns, things that are important and matter to God. And they are not only physical conditions.
What are the benefits of fasting according to Isaiah 58? ›8) Fasting Leads to Quick Healing
“Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear.” ~Isaiah 58:8 (NIV) God set up the fast as a manner of healing His people – a time when the darkness of oppression, depression or infirmity is dispelled by light, such as the dawn.
Letting his heart take courage meant letting himself believe God's promises. Courage is always fueled by faith. Good courage is fueled by faith in the ultimate good of the real God and all he promises to be for us in Jesus.
What does it mean by your stripes we are healed? ›Jesus received the most iconic tortures in His time. The Roman flagrum with which they flogged Jesus 39 times gave Him body marks/stripes. Each of the 39 strokes took care of sickness and the 39 strokes took care of all our sicknesses and diseases. The Bible affirms this fact this way, “by His stripes we are healed”.
What does it mean to have oil in our lamps? ›The Lord commanded the children of Israel anciently to use “pure oil olive beaten for the light, to cause the lamps to burn continually” (Leviticus 24:2). According to The Guide to the Scriptures, olive oil is a symbol of purity and of the presence and influence of the Holy Ghost.
What does it mean a kingdom that Cannot be shaken? ›He wants us to understand what it means to receive a Kingdom that cannot be shaken – no matter what circumstances or challenges or fears or battles we must face. We may not enjoy being shaken in this manner – but God has real purpose in it all – and it is earthed in His amazing love for us.
What does it mean to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might? ›
Verse 10 commands us to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might” (emphasis added). No human power alone can stop the devil's schemes, but God can and has already “disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him” (Colossians 2:15).
What does it mean to wait upon the Lord and renew your strength? ›What does 'those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength' mean? This means resting in God by allowing Him to take charge, believing that He is sufficient and powerful. Those who trust in Him must be strong in faith to contend with their foes or trials to triumph.
What is the commentary on Isaiah 58 verse 13? ›God claims the day as his, and as holy on that account. While all time is his, and while he requires all time to be profitably and usefully employed, he calls the Sabbath especially his own - a day which is to be observed with reference to himself, and which is to be regarded as belonging to him.
What does it mean the kingdom of God is in your midst? ›He told his listeners that the kingdom of God was “in [their] midst,” meaning that it was present because Jesus himself was there among them. Today, because Christ is present in us through the Holy Spirit, we can bring the presence of God's kingdom wherever we are.
What does it mean to be strong and courageous in the Lord? ›What does it mean to be strong? Part of being strong and of a good courage means trusting in the Lord as our true source of strength. In Joshua's case, he didn't have all the answers for the challenges before him. But he was counseled to go forward anyway, acting in faith.
What is the concise commentary on Isaiah 58? ›Commentary on Isaiah 58:1-2
Self-love and timid Christians may say, Spare thyself; dislike to the cross and other motives will say, "Spare the rich and powerful;" but God says, "Spare not:" and we must obey God, not men. We all need earnestly to pray for God's assistance in examining ourselves.
We like to look in the Bible for scriptures that speak to the work we do, building and restoring houses. This verse from Isaiah seems to be a call to the people to repair the walls and restore the city. Actually it's a promise to the people of what they can achieve if they will do the Lord's will.
What is the commentary on Isaiah 58 1 9? ›To truly “seek the LORD” is to seek justice and righteousness for the poor and oppressed. They are willing to entrust their rituals and prayers to God, but not extend their faith commitment to the social and economic spheres of their lives. Because of their social and economic sins they remain in darkness.
What kind of fasting pleases God? ›We have two types of fast. The one that pleases God known as the purifying fast, and the one that displeases God known as the wicked fast. Yes! there is something called wicked fast which powers of darkness embark on every now and then.
What does Isaiah teach about fasting? ›"Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.
What is the spiritual significance of fasting? ›
Fasting demonstrates the depth of your desire when praying for something. It shows you that you are serious enough about your prayer request to pay a personal price. God honors deep desire and praying in faith.
What does strengthening your heart mean biblically? ›The Psalmist tells us how we can keep strengthening our new heart – delight ourselves in God. Perhaps this is what Jesus meant when he called us to “Love God with all of our heart.” That God would be our greatest joy and highest purpose. As we grow in delighting in God, he gives us desires that reflect what he is like.
How can I be strong and courageous? ›- Embrace vulnerability. People who live fear-based lives often have little or no confidence in themselves. ...
- Admit you have fears. In addition to opening yourself up to others, admit you have fears. ...
- Face your fears. ...
- Think positively. ...
- Reduce your stress. ...
- Demonstrate courage. ...
- Cope with risk and uncertainty. ...
- Continue to learn.
The reality of His presence should give us a sense of confidence and boldness that equips us to take on whatever threats or challenges would keep us from walking with Him. We should not expect the devil to leave us alone if we are trying to do right, but we should expect victory through God's power.
What is the meaning of He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds? ›God loves you and will comfort you during hardships, and then place you in a place where you can use that enduring strength to comfort others.
What is the meaning of I am healed? ›to make or become well again, especially after a cut or other injury: The wounds were gradually healing (up).
What is the symbol of healing in the Bible? ›The Tree of Life is often representative of the tree in the Garden of Eden, mentioned throughout Genesis and Revelations. It is most commonly known as a symbol of eternal life, healing and growth.
What does a lamp symbolize? ›Life, the LIGHT of divinity, wisdom, intellect, and good works are all manifestations of the symbolic nature of the lamp. Lamps can also be a gateway to another plane, as in the story of Aladdin and the genie. Brings protection against dark demons, and can be the illumination of the spirit.
What causes the oil in the lamp light to rise? ›Due to presence of pores (narrow spacings) in the wick, capillary action takes place, which makes the oil to rise in the wick.
What do believers receive that Cannot be shaken? ›You see the gift offered through his Son Jesus Christ—forgiveness and the hope of everlasting life and a firm kingdom that can't be shaken—you extend your hands and say, "Sinner though I am, I receive it. This is now my portion forever and ever."
What does it mean to stand in holy places and be not moved? ›
These words are the Lord's words to His covenant people," said Sister Elaine S. Dalton, Young Women general president. "Standing in holy places is about being where the Holy Ghost can be. It is about living the standards in For the Strength of Youth. It is about being worthy to enter the Lord's temples."
What does a kingdom divided against itself Cannot stand mean? ›literally mean that success comes from sticking together and to do anything. else is to invoke disaster.
How do I stay strong in the Lord? ›You need to find a time and place where you can be alone with Heavenly Father and pour out your heart to Him, that you might add strength and power to your spiritual lives. Every honest and sincere prayer adds another piece to chain-mail armor.
How can I be spiritually strong in the Lord? ›- Humble Yourself and Pray.
- Read and Study Your Bible.
- Join a Group of Like-Minded Believers.
- Do for Others.
- Seek Out Your Spiritual Gifts.
Being strong in the Lord means embracing His empowerment, celebrating a triumphant victory, accepting God's presence in everything we do, and being with God in challenging times. We have to accept that God is always with us, and He will always make our path straight if we just follow Him and follow Jesus.
Why does God allow us to wait? ›God Works Through Waiting
How? To increase our trust. First and most foundationally, he uses waiting to increase our trust in him and loosen our perceived control. Waiting reminds us we're at the mercy (literally) of God's timing, and we have no power to change that.
It requires patience, yes, but it also requires action. To wait on the Lord is to trust Him, follow Him, study His Word and meditate on Him.
What is the spiritual meaning of wait? ›To wait is to be open to experiencing the holy moments around you: to experience feelings emanating from another person; to hear words in a broader context; or to experience God's presence through others.
What does it mean the name of the Lord is a strong tower? ›It is the name of the Lord that is our strong tower. It is the place of safety which God promises to those who run to Him. The name of the Lord is a Biblical expression for the whole character of God. The name of the Lord refers to God's person and character.
What does it mean to abide under the shadow of the Almighty? ›"Under the shadow of the Almighty" can mean "in the presence of God." God is always surrounding you. In His presence all good is yours. Understanding this enables you to be at peace, whatever your present circumstances. This is not a haphazard approach; it is prayer in action.
What does on your guard stand firm in the faith be courageous be strong mean? ›
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13) God has called and chosen us for the heavenly purpose. In order to achieve this heavenly race, we need to overcome any trials and difficult situations in this life.
How do you let God build His kingdom within you? ›- Be happy.
- Be positive.
- Pray and study the scriptures daily (see Joshua 1:8 [Scripture Mastery]).
- Repent of sins (see D&C 58:42–43 [Scripture Mastery]).
- Be worthy of a temple recommend.
- Listen to the prophet's counsel (see D&C 1:38 [Scripture Mastery, D&C 1:37–38]).
The kingdom of God, Jesus replied, is not something people will be able to see and point to. Then came these striking words: “Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you.” (Luke 17:21) With these words, Jesus gave voice to a teaching that is universal and timeless.
What is the secret of the kingdom of God? ›The Kingdom of God is the reality of all those who live this way in every generation and era. To those “outside” it remains a “secret” or a “mystery” they cannot fathom. To those “inside” it is a place where the love one extends to others brings an intimacy with the Risen Jesus and with the One who sent him (9:37).
What is the difference between being strong and being courageous? ›If strength is the ability to move or to stand or to be healthy or knowledgeable, than courage is strength in action. Courage puts our strength to work! But courage is tough. Courage means risk.
Is strength a gift of the Holy Spirit? ›Fortitude is ranked as the fourth gift of the Holy Spirit because it gives us the strength to follow through on the actions suggested by the gift of counsel. While fortitude is sometimes called courage, it goes beyond what we normally think of as courage.
What is Isaiah 58 8 talking about? ›Isaiah 58:6–8 Calls Us to Be Merciful and Just
God calls us not merely to go through religious routines, but to show justice and mercy to those in need. No, I've called you to love and care for those in need in the world. That's when your light breaks forth like the dawn.
Thousands of Christians use this passage to state that Jesus' work on the cross was not only for sin but also for sickness. They believe the healing this passage speaks of is referring to an immediate physical healing not only spiritual healing. They believe this healing can be applied now by faith.
What is the meaning of Isaiah 58 3? ›'It's because you are fasting to please yourselves. Even while you fast, you keep oppressing your workers. Isaiah 58:3, CSB: "Why have we fasted, but you have not seen? We have denied ourselves, but you haven't noticed! " "Look, you do as you please on the day of your fast, and oppress all your workers.
How do you explain Isaiah 58 9? ›He declares, “If you want Me to hear you on high, then you must look at your issues of the heart. Yes, I will hear you—if you quit pointing a finger at others, if you stop speaking about them disrespectfully.” It's a great sin in God's eyes for us to speak in ways that tarnish someone else's reputation.
What is the meaning of Isaiah 58 1 5? ›
God requires sincere faith from those who say they follow him – people who don't just hear the word but do the word – people who live what they believe. and expect your voice to be heard on high.” God's word to us now is still a warning about ritual without reality.
What is the commentary of Isaiah 58 verse 12? ›We like to look in the Bible for scriptures that speak to the work we do, building and restoring houses. This verse from Isaiah seems to be a call to the people to repair the walls and restore the city. Actually it's a promise to the people of what they can achieve if they will do the Lord's will.
How are we healed by Jesus wounds? ›Jesus received the most iconic tortures in His time. The Roman flagrum with which they flogged Jesus 39 times gave Him body marks/stripes. Each of the 39 strokes took care of sickness and the 39 strokes took care of all our sicknesses and diseases. The Bible affirms this fact this way, “by His stripes we are healed”.
What does God's wounds mean? ›Abbreviation of God's wounds, with reference to the wounds from Christ's crucifixion.
How does waiting on the Lord renew your strength? ›What does 'those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength' mean? This means resting in God by allowing Him to take charge, believing that He is sufficient and powerful. Those who trust in Him must be strong in faith to contend with their foes or trials to triumph.
What does Isaiah 58 9 14 mean? ›The eight verses preceding Isaiah 58:9b–14 provide essential literary context for interpretation. Chapter 58 as a whole focuses on the proper disposition of the community toward both God and neighbor. The prophet condemns those who assume that frequent worship and obsequious rituals will persuade God to help them.
What does it mean that the Lord is slow to anger? ›To say that God is “long of nose” is to say that he is patient—it takes him a long time before he becomes angry. He gives people time to respond to his gracious warnings.
What does it mean to be strengthened by grace? ›The grace that is in Jesus strengthens us because it is how we were saved in the first place (Ephesians 2:8-9)! It is our salvation. God supplied us faith in the beginning, so we can trust that he will strengthen our faith as we continue to share in suffering as good soldiers of Christ.