Isaiah 26:7
The path of the righteous is level; You clear a straight path for the upright.
The path of the righteous
The phrase "The path of the righteous" refers to the journey or way of life that those who are in right standing with God undertake. In Hebrew, the word for "path" is "orach," which implies a well-trodden road or a way of life. The righteous, or "tzaddik," are those who live in accordance with God's laws and commandments. Historically, the concept of a path is significant in the ancient Near Eastern context, where roads were essential for trade, communication, and pilgrimage. Spiritually, this path is not just a physical journey but a metaphor for the moral and ethical life that aligns with God's will.

is level
The phrase "is level" suggests smoothness and ease, indicating that the path of the righteous is made straight and even by God. The Hebrew word "mishor" conveys the idea of a plain or level ground, free from obstacles. This imagery is powerful, as it contrasts with the often rugged and treacherous terrain of ancient Israel. In a spiritual sense, a level path signifies divine guidance and providence, ensuring that the righteous can walk without stumbling. It reflects God's faithfulness in providing clarity and direction to those who seek Him.

You clear a straight path
"You clear a straight path" emphasizes God's active role in preparing the way for the righteous. The Hebrew verb "palas" means to make smooth or to weigh out, suggesting careful preparation and attention. This phrase underscores the belief that God is intimately involved in the lives of His people, removing obstacles and guiding them towards their divine purpose. In the broader biblical narrative, this reflects God's covenant faithfulness, as He continually works to fulfill His promises to His people.

for the righteous
The repetition of "for the righteous" at the end of the verse reinforces the special relationship between God and those who live according to His will. It highlights the assurance that the righteous can have in God's provision and protection. In the Hebrew context, righteousness is not merely about legalistic adherence to the law but encompasses a holistic commitment to justice, mercy, and humility before God. This assurance is a source of hope and encouragement, inspiring believers to pursue a life of righteousness with the confidence that God is with them every step of the way.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Isaiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, Isaiah's ministry spanned the reigns of several kings of Judah. He is known for his prophecies concerning the coming of the Messiah and the future glory of God's people.

2. The Righteous
In this context, the righteous are those who live in accordance with God's will and commandments. They are characterized by their faithfulness and integrity.

3. The Upright
Similar to the righteous, the upright are those who maintain moral integrity and honesty. They are committed to living a life that pleases God.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where Isaiah primarily ministered. The people of Judah were often called to repentance and faithfulness through Isaiah's prophecies.

5. God
The central figure in this verse, God is the one who makes the path of the righteous level and straight, symbolizing His guidance and provision for those who follow Him.
Teaching Points
God's Guidance
God actively guides the lives of the righteous, ensuring their paths are level and straight. This reflects His faithfulness and care for those who seek to live according to His will.

Righteous Living
Living a righteous life involves aligning one's actions and decisions with God's commandments. This commitment results in divine guidance and a clear path forward.

Trust in God's Plan
Even when circumstances seem uncertain, trusting in God's plan ensures that He will make our paths straight. This requires faith and reliance on His wisdom.

Moral Integrity
Upholding moral integrity and honesty is crucial for the upright. God honors such commitment by providing clarity and direction in life.

Spiritual Journey
The journey of faith is not always easy, but God promises to make the path level for those who are committed to Him. This encourages perseverance and dedication in our spiritual walk.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Isaiah 26:7 reflect God's role in the lives of the righteous?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our paths remain level and straight according to God's will?

3. How do the concepts of righteousness and uprightness in Isaiah 26:7 relate to the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

4. What practical steps can we take to maintain moral integrity in our daily lives?

5. How can we apply the promise of God's guidance in Isaiah 26:7 to situations of uncertainty or difficulty in our lives?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Proverbs 3:5-6
This passage emphasizes trusting in the Lord and acknowledging Him in all ways, promising that He will make paths straight, similar to the promise in Isaiah 26:7.

Psalm 37:23-24
These verses speak of the Lord establishing the steps of a good man, reinforcing the idea that God guides the paths of the righteous.

Matthew 7:13-14
Jesus speaks of the narrow path that leads to life, which aligns with the concept of a straight and level path for the righteous.
The Level Path of the Good ManR. Tuck Isaiah 26:7
A City the Emblem of SecurityR. H. Davies.Isaiah 26:1-10
A Song of SalvationG. Clayton.Isaiah 26:1-10
Our Strong CityA. Maclaren, D. D.Isaiah 26:1-10
Periods of RestorationW. Reading, M. A.Isaiah 26:1-10
Salvation, I.EProf. S. R. Driver, D. D.Isaiah 26:1-10
Saving HealthJ. M. Gibson, D. D.Isaiah 26:1-10
The Church not in DangerJ. C. Cronin.Isaiah 26:1-10
The City of SalvationA. Fletcher, D. D.Isaiah 26:1-10
The Saving Arm of God a Sure Defences to the Church of Christ Against All Her EnemiesJ. Young.Isaiah 26:1-10
The Song of SalvationR. H. Davies.Isaiah 26:1-10
The Triumph of GoodnessC. A. Dickinson.Isaiah 26:1-10
The Walls and Bulwarks of a CityJ. C. Cronin.Isaiah 26:1-10
Three Elements in ProphecyC. A. Dickinson.Isaiah 26:1-10
The Vision of Future GloryE. Johnson Isaiah 26:1-13
The Righteousness of God's RuleW. Clarkson Isaiah 26:5-7, 8
People
Isaiah
Places
Jerusalem
Topics
Direct, Level, Makest, O, Path, Plain, Ponder, Righteous, Road, Smooth, Straight, Upright, Uprightness, Weigh
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Isaiah 26:7

     1100   God, perfection

Isaiah 26:7-8

     4020   life, of faith
     5186   stumbling

Isaiah 26:7-9

     8158   righteousness, of believers

Library
Our Strong City
'In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks. Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.'--ISAIAH xxvi 1-2. What day is 'that day'? The answer carries us back a couple of chapters, to the great picture drawn by the prophet of a world-wide judgment, which is followed by a burst of song from the ransomed people of Jehovah, like Miriam's chant by the shores of the Red Sea.
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Song of Two Cities
'In that day shall this song he sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks. 2. Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in. 3. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee; because he trusteth in Thee. A. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength: 5. For He bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, He layeth it low; He layeth it low,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Inhabitant of the Rock
'Thou wilt keep him In perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee. Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength.'--ISAIAH xxvi. 3-4. There is an obvious parallel between these verses and the two preceding ones. The safety which was there set forth as the result of dwelling in the strong city is here presented as the consequence of trust. The emblem of the fortified place passes into that of the Rock of Ages. There is the further resemblance
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Desire of the Soul in Spiritual Darkness
"Tis midnight on the mountains' brown, The cold round moon shines deeply down; Blue roll the waters, blue the sky Spreads like an ocean hung on high, Bespangled with those isles of light, So wildly, spiritually bright; Who ever gazed upon them shining, And turning to earth without repining, Nor wish'd for wings to flee away, And mix with their eternal ray." Even with the most irreligious person, a man farthest from spiritual thought, it seems that there is some power in the grandeur and stillness
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 1: 1855

The Song of a City, and the Pearl of Peace
This song of a city may, however, belong to us as much as to the men of Judah, and we may throw into it a deeper sense of which they were not aware. We were once unguarded from spiritual evil, and we spent our days in constant fear; but the Lord has found for us a city of defence, a castle of refuge. We have a burgess-ship in the new Jerusalem which is the mother of us all; and within that strong city we dwell securely. Let us sing this morning, "We have a strong city." The man that hath come into
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 31: 1885

A Sermon on Isaiah xxvi. By John Knox.
[In the Prospectus of our Publication it was stated, that one discourse, at least, would be given in each number. A strict adherence to this arrangement, however, it is found, would exclude from our pages some of the most talented discourses of our early Divines; and it is therefore deemed expedient to depart from it as occasion may require. The following Sermon will occupy two numbers, and we hope, that from its intrinsic value, its historical interest, and the illustrious name of its author, it
John Knox—The Pulpit Of The Reformation, Nos. 1, 2 and 3.

O, this is Blessing, this is Rest --
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed in Thee: because he trusteth in Thee." -- Isaiah 26:3. O, this is blessing, this is rest -- Unto Thine arms, O Lord, I flee: I hide me in Thy faithful breast, And pour out all my soul to Thee. There is a host dissuading me, -- But, all their voices far above, I hear Thy words -- "O taste and see The comfort of a Savior's love." And, hushing every adverse sound, Songs of defence my soul surround, As if all saints encamped about One trusting
Miss A. L. Waring—Hymns and Meditations

Sleeping and Waking
C. P. C. Is. xxvi. 19 We slept--a sleep of death, and yet of dreams, Fair dreams that pass, and sad dreams that abide, Where yearneth to the sound of distant streams The soul unsatisfied. We woke--but oh for speech of that fair land Wherein the soul awaketh, to declare The wonders that no heart can understand, That hath not entered there. For there the light that is not sun nor moon, That glows as morning, and as eve is sweet, And hath the glory of eternal noon, Doth guide the joyful feet. And
Frances Bevan—Hymns of Ter Steegen, Suso, and Others

From his Return from Russia to his Last Journey.
1853-1858. John Yeardley had scarcely returned to England before war was declared with Russia. The confirmation he received from this lamentable event, that his journey had been made at the opportune time, filled his heart with gratitude. The work he had been able to do had been small, but he had the satisfaction of knowing that it had been accomplished at the only juncture in which it would have been practicable. The year 1853, he writes, closed with many mercies to a poor unworthy servant. I consider
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel

I Fear, I Say, Greatly for Thee, Lest...
39. I fear, I say, greatly for thee, lest, when thou boastest that thou wilt follow the Lamb wheresoever He shall have gone, thou be unable by reason of swelling pride to follow Him through strait ways. It is good for thee, O virgin soul, that thus, as thou art a virgin, thus altogether keeping in thy heart that thou hast been born again, keeping in thy flesh that thou hast been born, thou yet conceive of the fear of the Lord, and give birth to the spirit of salvation. [2142] "Fear," indeed, "there
St. Augustine—Of Holy Virginity.

Pleading
We shall consider our text, then, as one of the productions of a great master in spiritual matters, and we will study it, praying all the while that God will help us to pray after the like fashion. In our text we have the soul of a successful pleader under four aspects: we view, first, the soul confessing: "I am poor and needy." You have next, the soul pleading, for he makes a plea out of his poor condition, and adds, "Make haste unto me, O God!" You see, thirdly, a soul in it's urgency, for he cries,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

"For the Law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus Hath Made Me Free from the Law of Sin and Death. "
Rom. viii. 2.--"For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death." You know there are two principal things in the preceding verse,--the privilege of a Christian, and the property or character of a Christian. He is one that never enters into condemnation; He that believeth shall not perish, John iii. 15. And then he is one that walks not after the flesh, though he be in the flesh, but in a more elevate way above men, after the guiding and leading
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

The Nature of Spiritual Hunger
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness Matthew 5:6 We are now come to the fourth step of blessedness: Blessed are they that hunger'. The words fall into two parts: a duty implied; a promise annexed. A duty implied: Blessed are they that hunger'. Spiritual hunger is a blessed hunger. What is meant by hunger? Hunger is put for desire (Isaiah 26:9). Spiritual hunger is the rational appetite whereby the soul pants after that which it apprehends most suitable and proportional
Thomas Watson—The Beatitudes: An Exposition of Matthew 5:1-12

Out of Sectarian Confusion
I was still a Methodist. The Methodist did not license women to preach; but when the preachers found out that God was using me in the salvation of souls and that I was not especially interested in building up any certain denomination, I had an abundance of calls. God had already begun talking to my brother Jeremiah about the sin of division, and he was beginning to see the evils of sectarianism. The winter after I was healed, he had attended the Jacksonville, Illinois, holiness convention, and had
Mary Cole—Trials and Triumphs of Faith

His Journey to South Russia.
1853. The call which John Yeardley had received to visit the German colonies in South Russia, and which had lain for a long time dormant, now revived. A friend who had watched with regret his unsuccessful attempts on former journeys to enter that jealous country, and who augured from the political changes which had taken place that permission might probably now be obtained, brought the subject again under his notice. The admonition was timely and effectual. After carefully pondering the matter--with,
John Yeardley—Memoir and Diary of John Yeardley, Minister of the Gospel

Of the Last Resurrection.
1. For invincible perseverance in our calling, it is necessary to be animated with the blessed hope of our Savior's final advent. 2. The perfect happiness reserved for the elect at the final resurrection unknown to philosophers. 3. The truth and necessity of this doctrine of a final resurrection. To confirm our belief in it we have, 1. The example of Christ; and, 2. The omnipotence of God. There is an inseparable connection between us and our risen Savior. The bodies of the elect must be conformed
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

The Heart's Desire Given to Help Mission Work in China.
"Sept. 30 [1869].--From Yorkshire L50.--Received also One Thousand Pounds to-day for the Lord's work in China. About this donation it is especially to be noticed, that for months it had been my earnest desire to do more than ever for Mission Work in China, and I had already taken steps to carry out this desire, when this donation of One Thousand Pounds came to hand. This precious answer to prayer for means should be a particular encouragement to all who are engaged in the Lord's work, and who may
George Müller—Answers to Prayer

The Love of the Holy Spirit in Us.
"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not."--Matt. xxvii. 37. The Scripture teaches not only that the Holy Spirit dwells in us, and with Him Love, but also that He sheds abroad that Love in our hearts. This shedding abroad does not refer to the coming of the Holy Spirit's Person, for a person can not be shed abroad. He comes, takes possession, and dwells in us; but that which is shed abroad
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

"But if the Spirit of Him that Raised up Jesus from the Dead Dwell in You, He that Raised up Christ from the Dead, Shall Also
Rom. viii. 11.--"But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead, shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." As there is a twofold death,--the death of the soul, and the death of the body--so there is a double resurrection, the resurrection of the soul from the power of sin, and the resurrection of the body from the grave. As the first death is that which is spiritual, then that which is bodily, so
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Love
The rule of obedience being the moral law, comprehended in the Ten Commandments, the next question is: What is the sum of the Ten Commandments? The sum of the Ten Commandments is, to love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind, and our neighbour as ourselves. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.' Deut 6: 5. The duty called for is love, yea, the strength of love, with all
Thomas Watson—The Ten Commandments

Another Shorter Evening Prayer.
O eternal God and heavenly Father, if I were not taught and assured by the promises of thy gospel, and the examples of Peter, Mary Magdalene, the publican, the prodigal child, and many other penitent sinners, that thou art so full of compassion, and so ready to forgive the greatest sinners, who are heaviest laden with sin, at what time soever they return unto thee with penitent hearts, lamenting their sins, and imploring thy grace, I should despair for mine own sins, and be utterly discouraged from
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

The Iranian Conquest
Drawn by Boudier, from the engraving in Coste and Flandin. The vignette, drawn by Faucher-Gudin, from a statuette in terra-cotta, found in Southern Russia, represents a young Scythian. The Iranian religions--Cyrus in Lydia and at Babylon: Cambyses in Egypt --Darius and the organisation of the empire. The Median empire is the least known of all those which held sway for a time over the destinies of a portion of Western Asia. The reason of this is not to be ascribed to the shortness of its duration:
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 9

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