Isaiah 54:1-55:13

54:5 | Your Maker is your husband recalls the story of Naomi in the Book of Ruth. God would bring life from Jerusalem’s widowhood by restoring children after the exile.

54:11-12 | In contrast to her present state (being afflicted and in a tempest), Jerusalem would be restored, beautified and fortified, as a city even more glorious than before (Rev. 21:14-21), adorned with precious stones and colorful gems.

55:6-11 | In this passage, the Lord contrasts His thoughts and ways with sinful Israel’s. Human plans inevitable fail and falter, but the Lord’s plans are different. When He promises forgiveness and restored blessing for His people, He will be true to His word. Just as the rain and snow fall to the ground and fulfill their God-given purpose unhindered, God’s promises and purposes will be realized.

55:6-7 | To seek the LORD means to approach Him through prayer and repentance. This carries with it the idea of discerning and emulating God’s way of life and His character. The phrase while He may be found means that the opportunity for response is urgent. The language of these verses echoes other passages that look forward to a time when the Lord will restore His repentant people (Deut. 4:25-31; 30:1-10; 1 Kgs. 8:46-53).