Isaiah 49: Foundations for Service
ISAIAH 42:1-25 WAS the first passage in which the Lord began to reveal to Isaiah the character of the Mighty Deliverer he was going to send, who would yet be a lowly servant. Isaiah 49 is the second so-called servant song which reveals more about the servant and what he will be like. The words apply preeminently to our Lord, but all his servants can take them too as a pattern for their ministry.
Warming Up to God
When depression, discouragement or despair comes your way, how do you deal with it?
Read Isaiah 49. »
Discovering the Word
- Review the servant's reactions in verses 1-7 to the Lord's call. How does he look to the past and to the future for his encouragement?
- The Lord is going to save his people, and the servant is going to be the mediator of his covenant with the people. How do verses 8-12 describe different aspects of God's salvation?
- In what ways do verses 8-12 give a foretaste of the ministry of Jesus Christ?
- Israel (Zion) responds with a complaint—not a song—in verse 14. By what arguments does the Lord refute the complaint in verses 15-18?
- What promises are given to the Israelites in verses 22-26?
Applying the Word
- When have you felt disappointed or hopeless in your relationship with God?
- Review the forces marshaled in this passage for the battle against discouragement and despair. How does this knowledge help you with the daily battles you face?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to teach you how to put your hope in him.
For Further Study
Transformation by Rebecca Manley Pippert