Isaiah 66:1-9 ▼

1 This is what the LORD says: Heaven is my throne. The earth is my footstool. Where can you build a house or resting place for me?

2 I have made all these things. |That is why all these things have come into being,| declares the LORD. I will pay attention to those who are humble and sorry [for their sins] and who tremble at my word.

3 Whoever kills a bull is like someone who kills a person. Whoever sacrifices a lamb is like someone who breaks a dog's neck. Whoever offers a grain sacrifice is like someone who [offers] pig's blood. Whoever burns incense is like someone who worships an idol. People have certainly chosen their own ways, and their souls delight in detestable things.

4 So I will choose harsh treatment for them and bring on them what they fear. I called, but no one answered. I spoke, but they didn't listen. They did what I consider evil. They chose what I don't like.

5 Listen to the word of the LORD, all who tremble at his word. Your relatives, who hate you and exclude you for my name's sake, say, |Let the LORD show his glory; then we will see your joy.| But they will be put to shame.

6 Listen to the uproar from the city. Listen to the sound from the temple. It is the sound of the LORD paying back his enemies as they deserve.

7 Before a woman goes into labor, she gives birth. Before she has labor pains, she delivers a child.

8 Who has heard of such a thing? Who has seen such things? Can a country be born in one day? Can a nation be born in a moment? When Zion went into labor, she also gave birth to her children.

9 |Do I bring a mother to the moment of birth and not let her deliver?| asks the LORD. |Do I cause a mother to deliver and then make her unable to have children?| asks your God.