Isaiah 26

Summary Whenever there is celebration, singing is bound to happen. This song comes at the end of a time of difficulty and trial. When God intervenes and brings judgment - things get better. The song is a reflection on the peace that comes with relying on God. With the coming of judgment is a time of restoration and renewal. God So far in this section which started in chapter 24 we have seen God judging the spiritual forces which were influencing the world toward evil. He has stood against the kings which have done evil in the world. God judges. This is the great stabilising balance in the universe. Without it, evil goes on forever. Knowing this creates 3 things in the believer’s life: 1. Peace. “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you” (vs 3). As we trust in God he is our rock. 2. Purpose. The world is not senseless. There is accountability and there is a God who sees. He humbles the proud. He lifts up the oppressed. 3. Presence. God is present. Where God is, there is life. The evil that is done in this world is immediately reversed with the coming of the Creator God. Death is reversed and gives way to life. Gospel It is good news that God judges. It is good news that God judges in history. It is not put off til later. He now sits on his throne. It is good news that God is coming again. It brings joy to the deflated and lifts them up. It brings life to the dead and raises them up. The book of revelation says that the everlasting good news is when God’s hour of judgment begins. John believes with Jesus it has already begun. All nations hear this message (like in Isaiah) and all are called to return to God. He sits now at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Reflection