Isaiah 63:7

I will make known the LORD's loving devotion and His praiseworthy acts, because of all that the LORD has done for us--the many good things for the house of Israel according to His great compassion and loving devotion.

Study Bible

I will make known
This phrase indicates a deliberate action of proclamation. The Hebrew root word here is "zakar," which means to remember or to mention. In the context of Isaiah, this is a call to actively recall and declare the deeds of the Lord. It suggests a public testimony, an act of worship, and a reminder to the community of God's faithfulness. Historically, this aligns with the Jewish tradition of recounting God's mighty acts during festivals and gatherings, ensuring that His works are not forgotten.

the LORD’s loving devotion
The Hebrew word for "loving devotion" is "chesed," a term rich with meaning, often translated as lovingkindness, mercy, or steadfast love. It conveys a sense of loyalty and covenantal faithfulness. In the conservative Christian perspective, this reflects God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people. Theologically, it underscores the grace that God extends to humanity, a theme that runs throughout the Bible and is fulfilled in the New Testament through Christ.

the praises of the LORD
"Praises" here is derived from the Hebrew word "tehillah," which refers to songs of praise or hymns. This phrase emphasizes the importance of worship and adoration directed towards God. In the historical context of Israel, singing praises was a communal activity, often led by the Levites in the temple. It serves as a reminder of the power of worship in drawing believers closer to God and acknowledging His sovereignty.

according to all the LORD has done for us
This phrase calls for a comprehensive reflection on God's actions. The Hebrew word "asah" means to do or to make, indicating God's active involvement in the lives of His people. It encourages believers to consider the entirety of God's works, both in personal lives and in the history of Israel. This reflection fosters gratitude and trust in God's continued provision and protection.

the many good things
The phrase "many good things" highlights the abundance of God's blessings. The Hebrew word "tov" means good, pleasant, or beneficial. This reflects the nature of God's gifts, which are not only numerous but also inherently good. In a conservative Christian view, this abundance is seen as a testament to God's generosity and His desire for His people to experience His goodness.

for the house of Israel
This phrase specifies the recipients of God's blessings, the "house of Israel," referring to the descendants of Jacob. Historically, this underscores the covenant relationship between God and Israel, a central theme in the Old Testament. For Christians, it also points to the spiritual Israel, the Church, which inherits the promises through faith in Christ.

because of His compassion and great loving devotion
Here, "compassion" is translated from the Hebrew word "racham," which conveys a deep, tender love, often likened to a mother's love for her child. Coupled with "chesed," it paints a picture of God's profound care and mercy. This dual emphasis on compassion and loving devotion reassures believers of God's unwavering love and His readiness to forgive and restore.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Isaiah
The prophet who authored the book, delivering messages from God to the people of Israel.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, known for His loving devotion and compassion.

3. House of Israel
The collective term for the people of Israel, God's chosen nation.

4. Loving Devotion (Hebrew: "chesed")
A key attribute of God, often translated as "steadfast love" or "mercy," indicating His faithful and covenantal love.

5. Compassion (Hebrew: "rachamim")
Reflects God's tender mercy and care for His people.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Character
Recognize that God's loving devotion and compassion are central to His nature. Reflect on how these attributes have been evident in your life.

Gratitude for God's Acts
Like Isaiah, we should recount and give thanks for the many good things God has done for us, both individually and collectively as His people.

Covenantal Relationship
God's loving devotion is rooted in His covenant with His people. Consider how this covenantal relationship is fulfilled in Christ and what it means for us today.

Reflecting God's Love
As recipients of God's loving devotion, we are called to reflect His love and compassion to others in our daily interactions.

Faithfulness in Trials
Trust in God's steadfast love and compassion, especially during difficult times, knowing that His character does not change.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the Hebrew word "chesed" deepen our appreciation of God's loving devotion in Isaiah 63:7?

2. In what ways can we recount and share the praiseworthy acts of the LORD in our own lives, similar to Isaiah's declaration?

3. How does the concept of God's compassion in Isaiah 63:7 encourage us to show compassion to others?

4. What are some specific examples from the Bible where God's loving devotion is demonstrated, and how do they inspire us today?

5. How can we apply the understanding of God's covenantal love in Isaiah 63:7 to our relationship with Christ and His church?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:6-7
This passage describes God's character, emphasizing His mercy, grace, and loving devotion, similar to Isaiah 63:7.

Psalm 136
Known for its repeated refrain, "His loving devotion endures forever," this psalm echoes the theme of God's steadfast love.

Lamentations 3:22-23
Highlights God's compassion and faithfulness, which are new every morning, resonating with the themes in Isaiah 63:7.

Ephesians 2:4-5
In the New Testament, Paul speaks of God's great love and mercy, which aligns with the Old Testament understanding of God's character.

1 John 4:9-10
Demonstrates God's love through the sending of His Son, connecting the Old Testament concept of loving devotion to the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ.