God Rescuing The Nation

Isaiah 59:16–21
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God observes that there was no one to stand for truth and intercede in behalf of a sinful society. Like a warrior He goes forth to fight for His people (v. 16). Isaiah describes the clothing that God had already prepared for the salvation of Israel. Righteousness is His breastplate and salvation is His helmet (v. 17). The breastplate and helmet are also described as the armor of the Christian in Ephesians. His other garments are vengeance and zeal. He supplies righteousness and salvation for His people as He zealously executes vengeance on His enemies (v. 18). Because of this people everywhere will acknowledge His glory, majesty and strength (v. 19). He will be the redeemer of those Israelites who turn to Him in repentance (v. 20). He will inaugurate His Covenant, pouring His Spirit on believing Israelites and redeem them by instilling His words within them (v. 21).

Because of Israel’s willful, persistent rebellion the nation became unable to take action against its sins. Sin fills the vacuum left when God’s truth no longer fills our lives. Only God can defeat sin and redeem us. He would rescue the nation from enemy armies and punish wicked Israelites as well. He would also rescue His people from sin, because this is an impossible task for any human. Whether we sin once or many times, out of rebellion or out of ignorance, our sin separates us from God and will continue to separate us until God forgives us and removes it.

Application

I am able to respond to God’s will and distinguish between good and evil because the Holy Spirit dwells within me and has redeemed me (John 14:26).