Isaiah 46:4

Even to your old age, I will be the same, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will sustain you and deliver you.

Study Bible

Even to your old age
This phrase emphasizes God's eternal constancy and faithfulness. The Hebrew word for "old age" is "zāqēn," which signifies not just the physical aging process but also the wisdom and experience that come with it. In ancient Israelite culture, old age was revered and associated with honor and respect. This phrase reassures believers that God's care and presence are unwavering throughout the entirety of their lives, from youth to the twilight years.

I will be the same
The Hebrew root here is "hû," meaning "He" or "the same." This highlights God's unchanging nature, a central theme in conservative Christian theology. God's immutability is a source of comfort, as it assures believers that His character, promises, and love remain constant despite the changing circumstances of life. This constancy is a foundation for trust and reliance on God.

and even to your gray hairs
"Gray hairs" is translated from the Hebrew "śēbā," symbolizing the later stages of life. In biblical times, gray hair was a sign of dignity and wisdom. This phrase reinforces the message that God's support and care do not diminish with age. It is a promise of His enduring presence and strength, providing assurance that He will not abandon His people as they grow older.

I will carry you
The Hebrew word "’āmas" means "to carry" or "to bear." This imagery of God carrying His people is powerful, suggesting a tender, parental care. It evokes the image of a shepherd carrying a lamb or a parent carrying a child, emphasizing God's intimate involvement in the lives of His followers. This promise of divine support is a source of comfort and strength, especially in times of weakness or vulnerability.

I have made you
The verb "’āśâ" means "to make" or "to create." This phrase underscores God's role as the Creator, intimately involved in the formation and purpose of each individual. It reminds believers of their inherent value and purpose, as they are crafted by the hands of a loving Creator. This foundational truth is a source of identity and worth, affirming that each life is intentional and precious.

and I will bear you
The Hebrew "nāśā’" means "to lift" or "to carry." This reiterates the promise of God's sustaining power. It suggests not only physical support but also emotional and spiritual upliftment. In times of trial or burden, believers can find solace in the assurance that God is actively involved in bearing their burdens alongside them.

I will sustain you
"Sustain" is translated from the Hebrew "sāmak," meaning "to uphold" or "to support." This word conveys the idea of God providing the necessary strength and resources to endure life's challenges. It is a promise of provision and stability, ensuring that believers have what they need to persevere in faith and righteousness.

and deliver you
The Hebrew "mālaṭ" means "to rescue" or "to save." This final promise in the verse encapsulates God's role as a deliverer. It assures believers of His power to save them from danger, distress, or sin. This deliverance is both temporal and eternal, pointing to God's ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ. It is a promise of hope and redemption, encouraging believers to trust in God's saving grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah's ministry was primarily to the Kingdom of Judah. He is known for his prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah and the salvation of the Lord.

2. Babylon
In the broader context of Isaiah 46, Babylon represents the power and idolatry that stands in opposition to God. The chapter contrasts the impotence of Babylonian idols with the power and faithfulness of God.

3. The Israelites
The primary audience of Isaiah's message, the Israelites were often tempted to turn to idols and needed reassurance of God's enduring presence and support.

Teaching Points

God's Unchanging Nature
God declares, "I will be the same," highlighting His immutable nature. Unlike the changing circumstances of life, God remains constant and reliable.

Divine Sustenance and Deliverance
The promise "I will carry you; I will sustain you and deliver you" assures believers of God's ongoing support and rescue, regardless of age or situation.

Trust in God's Faithfulness
Believers are encouraged to trust in God's faithfulness throughout their lives, knowing that He has been, and will continue to be, their support and deliverer.

Rejecting Idolatry
In the context of Isaiah 46, the impotence of idols is contrasted with God's power. Believers are reminded to place their trust in God alone, rather than in worldly powers or possessions.

Hope in Aging
The verse provides comfort and hope for those in their later years, affirming that God's care does not diminish with age.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of God's unchanging nature in Isaiah 46:4 provide comfort in times of uncertainty?

2. In what ways can we experience God's sustaining power in our daily lives, as promised in this verse?

3. How does the assurance of God's deliverance in Isaiah 46:4 encourage us to face challenges and trials?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" that might tempt us to rely on them instead of God, and how can we apply the lessons from Isaiah 46 to resist these temptations?

5. How can the promise of God's care in old age influence our perspective on aging and the way we support the elderly in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 31:6
This verse emphasizes God's promise to never leave nor forsake His people, similar to the assurance given in Isaiah 46:4.

Psalm 71:18
This Psalm reflects a prayer for God's continued presence and strength in old age, resonating with the promise of God bearing and sustaining His people throughout their lives.

Philippians 1:6
In the New Testament, this verse speaks to the confidence that God, who began a good work in believers, will carry it on to completion, echoing the sustaining promise found in Isaiah 46:4.