Isaiah 57:16

"For the high and lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy, says: “I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also who is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite."

Key Reflection

Isaiah 57:16 portrays God as both exalted and approachable, emphasizing His eternal nature and holiness while assuring that He dwells among those who are humble and contrite. The original audience would have understood this in the context of their own struggles with sin and idolatry; Isaiah reassures them that despite their shortcomings, God remains present to restore their spirits and mend broken hearts, highlighting a divine promise of restoration for those who turn away from their sins and seek Him sincerely.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

For I will not contend for ever -I will not be angry with my people forever, nor always refuse to pardon and comfort them (seePsalms 103:9). This is to be regarded as having been primarily addressed to the Jews in their long and painful exile in Babylon. It is, however, couched in general language; and the idea is, that although God would punish his people for their sins, yet his wrath would not be perpetual. If they were his children, he would visit them again in mercy, and would restore to them his favor. For the spirit should fail before me -Critics have taken a great deal of pains on this part of the verse, which they suppose to be very obscure.

More from Isaiah 57

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

Go deeper with Bible.talk - your AI Bible study companion