The exiles in Babylon felt that God had abandoned them, broken his covenant relationship with them, or sold them to his creditors. But their hardships were due to their own sins. It was not caused by God, for the arm of the Creator is never too short to save his people. God's undying hope is to restore them to be a covenant people and a light for the Gentiles. We should not doubt God's love or blame him for our troubles. But we need to examine ourselves, repent of our sins, trust God's unfailing love and goodness, and listen to his word.

There is a contrast between the transgressions of Israel (1) and the obedience of the LORD's servant (5). The servant reveals God with an instructed tongue and gives life to those who are weary and burdened by sin. He also has listening ears and a humble obedient heart. His obedience results in suffering for him, but he is willing to bear the abuse, for he knows that God would vindicate him in the end. This was vividly portrayed in the life and ministry of Jesus. Our Lord Jesus was mocked, despised, and humiliated, but he willingly suffered for sinful mankind. Anyone who doesn't listen to and obey the words of the servant and lights fires of rebellion will lie down in torment.


Application: Lord, thank you for Jesus who taught the word of God to the weary and suffered for my sins. Help me to have an instructed tongue and listening ears to serve those who are weary and burdened.
One Word: Waken my ear to listen to you, Lord!