Isaiah 26:1-27:1

26:1-2 | This song will be sung by the redeemed in a victory procession into Jerusalem when the Messiah establishes the millennial kingdom. Isaiah pictures himself standing in the redeemed land with the remnant, listening to the people express their praise and confidence in God. Victory is reserved for the righteous nation. They trust in God.

26:1 | God protects His people like the walls of a fortified city; in His presence they are secure.

26:3 | The context of this promise of perfect peace is what makes it so inviting. Israel was anticipating the Day of the Lord when God would rain down judgment upon her enemies.

26:16-18 | A woman about to give birth can endure the pain because she knows that they joy of a child will follow. The remnant of Israel experienced God’s chastening, but in their eyes it appeared to be in vain because they only brought forth wind. This produced despair and disappointment.

26:19-20 | In contrast to the wicked dead, who are not viewed in the OT as returning to life, the righteous dead shall live… shall arise from the dust and sing for joy (Dan. 12:2). God promised that their suffering would last only a moment when compared with the eternal joy that awaited them (Ps. 30:5; 2 Cor. 4:17).