Isaiah 65 - 10.21.25

SCRIPTURE:  ISAIAH 65:17 – 18

 

“See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create”

 

OBSERVATION

 

The beginning of Isaiah 65 is God seeing the empty repentance of his people yet will bless those who are genuine and faithful servants. Many of those in exile in Babylon would appear “holy” yet their heart and actions were very different. They were self- righteous! But God saw the faithful and began verse 17 with “See” almost to say “Look at what I’m doing for you, the faithful.” He is giving us all a wonderful promise and blessing in verse 17 – 18, one that we can be glad and rejoice about forever and ever.

 

Before going forward, I have to confess that I’m just scratching the surface of this chapter. There is so much “meat” in the entire chapter but verse 17 – 18 stood out to me.  For some reason, and only God knows, maybe there’s someone who will read this, will be blessed and encouraged.

 

Some interpret this section of scripture to discuss Christ’s 1000 year reign on earth as noted in Revelation 20:4. Although Scripture about the end times can be confusing and somewhat scary from the human point of view, these two verses are reassuring. These verses are the blessing for the faithful so they will not lose hope. The faithful who remain in the Lord through everything, not straying away, not being self-righteous but who stay steadfast – will receive the blessing of verse 17 – 18.

 

The thought of God creating a new heaven and new earth sounds wonderful right now in light of all that is going on in the world. The “former things” of this earth, all that we know how this earth works, will not be remembered. By not remembering the “former things,” our focus and future will be based on all that God will make new. He gives us an encouragement to “be glad and rejoice forever in what I will create.” We have a lot to look forward to and can rejoice in what He’s preparing for us.

 

APPLICATION

 

Sometimes when we recall all that this world brings: sorrow, heartache, sin and death, we can be overcome with grief. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unable to move forward when circumstances are hard. But God has a wonderful plan! Besides providing salvation to those who accept Him as their savior, God wants you to be encouraged, to know that He cares and is preparing a place for you. He says all these things to help you not lose faith, to not give up, to stay steadfast in Him. Maybe you’re going through something very painful or difficult right now. Stop for a moment to think about the depth of what God is saying. He will create a new heaven and earth for His faithful servants. Yes, He loves you that much! Isn’t that amazing? 

 

All that we know is the “new earth” will be different than what we know. It’s hard to imagine or even dream of how this new heaven and earth will be, but we can be filled with hope it will be even better than anything you can imagine. Even better than the wonderful images from deep space – better than any place you’ve ever visited on earth. God created a lot of beautiful things on this earth and in the heavens but the new heaven and earth will be even better, grander, and more glorious. I remember driving through the tunnel to enter Yosemite. As you exit the tunnel, the view of the valley, Half Dome, and the waterfalls create a crescendo of angels singing in my head. In that moment, I am awe struck at God’s beautiful creation. Somehow, and only through God’s perfect design, the “new heaven and earth” will be better! 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, thank you for giving us your Word and hope for the new heaven and earth you are preparing for us – the faithful who remain in You. Help me to focus and remember your blessing and plans. You have so much more created for us in the future than can ever be imagined. Thank you for your hope! Help me to not be distracted by this world but to be focused on your plans, your future, and the hope of a new heaven and new earth. Help me to share the Good News of your salvation so even more faithful will get to enjoy the new heaven and new earth. In Jesus name – Amen!

- Mary Oberg

Next
Next

Isaiah 64 - 10.20.25