Israel's hopeless situation after her exile makes her sorrowful and bitter like a barren woman, a widow, or a divorced wife. But God promises to restore her from the shame and disgrace of her youth and make her more fruitful than before. Hence, God invites her to sing, shout for joy, and enlarge the place of her tent. God envisions his people as a kingdom of priests and a holy nation who welcomes the whole world into her tent with wide hearts. They don't have to sit in despair any longer. In the same way, God's promise gives us hope and enables us to overcome fear and myopic visions in order to serve his purpose for us in our time (Mt 28:19; Ac 1:8).

Israel became a rejected wife due to her unfaithfulness. However, God, her Husband and Redeemer, found a way to restore her back to himself through the ministry of his servant. His anger was for a moment, but his love is unfailing. His covenant of peace is forever. Israel is like an afflicted city, but God will adorn Israel's foundations with jewels and ensure that her children will be instructed by God and prosper. Their dwelling will be secure and abound with righteousness and peace. This vision looks forward to the expansion of God's kingdom through Jesus.


Application: Lord, help me to enlarge the place of my tent and serve your great purpose for me by faith.
One Word: Enlarge the place of your tent.