Isaiah 65 Devotional

Found by Those Not Looking

“For behold, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.”Isaiah 65:17 (BSB)

The chapter opens with a surprise. God made himself known to people who were not asking for him, and he was found by those who were not looking (65:1). Paul quotes this verse to show that God's grace reaches the Gentiles (Romans 10:20). Meanwhile his own people, to whom he held out his hands all day long, keep provoking him while claiming to be holier than others (65:2-5). Judgment will come, but a remnant will be spared (65:8-10).

Then God announces what he will create: new heavens and a new earth, where the former troubles are forgotten (65:17). He will rejoice over Jerusalem, and weeping will be gone (65:19). People will live in the houses they build and eat from the vineyards they plant, and their work will not be in vain (65:21-23). John saw this new heaven and earth, with God dwelling among his people and every tear ended (Revelation 21:1-4). Present toil and grief are real, but they are not the final word.

To think about: How does God's promise of a new creation change the way you see the work and grief of this week?