10.14.2015 Old Testament: Isa 54.4–8

To read the Bible in a year, read Isaiah 53–55 on October 14, In the year of our Lord 2015

By Don Ruhl

Israel sinned against the Lord badly, and they suffered for it, but He wanted them to know that for their repentance, they would gain a wonderful relationship with Him,

“Do not fear, for you will not be ashamed;
Neither be disgraced, for you will not be put to shame;
For you will forget the shame of your youth,
And will not remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore. 
For your Maker is your husband,
The Lord of hosts is His name;
And your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; 
He is called the God of the whole earth.
For the Lord has called you
Like a woman forsaken and grieved in spirit,
Like a youthful wife when you were refused,”
Says your God.
“For a mere moment I have forsaken you,
But with great mercies I will gather you.
With a little wrath I hid My face from you for a moment;
But with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you,”
Says the Lord, your Redeemer.
(Isaiah 54.4–8) 

The Lord sent Israel away from Him, but He received them back as in a beautiful marriage. He had hidden from them for a moment, but His kindness would have no end.