Isaiah 62:7 – “And give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth.”

Isaiah 62:7 is a verse that calls for persistent prayer and active faith. It emphasizes the urgency of seeking God’s intervention and trusting in His promise to restore His people and make them a testimony to the world.

Extended Explanation of the Verse

This verse is a continuation of the call in Isaiah 62:6 for watchmen to remain vigilant. The instruction to “give him no rest” is an appeal for persistent prayer and intercession. It’s not that God forgets His promises, but He invites His people to actively participate in bringing about His plans through their faithfulness in prayer.

The focus on “establishing Jerusalem” and making it “the praise of the earth” reflects God’s intention to restore His people to a place of honor, where they reflect His glory to all nations. This verse reassures God’s people that He is committed to His promises and will ultimately bring them to fulfillment.

Historical Context

Isaiah spoke these words to the people of Israel during a time of uncertainty and exile. Jerusalem, once a thriving city and the center of worship, had been destroyed by Babylonian forces. The people were scattered, and their identity as God’s chosen nation seemed to be in jeopardy.

In this context, the promise to make Jerusalem “the praise of the earth” was a beacon of hope. It pointed to a time when God would restore His people, rebuild the city, and reestablish His covenant with them.

Theological Implications

1. God Invites Participation: This verse highlights the partnership between God and His people. He calls on them to be persistent in prayer and faith, actively trusting in His promises.
2. God’s Commitment to Restoration: The verse assures us of God’s faithfulness. Despite the destruction and exile Israel faced, God promised to bring restoration and glory to His people.
3. The Glory of God through His People: When Jerusalem becomes the “praise of the earth,” it reflects not the greatness of the city itself but the glory of the God who restores it.

Literary Analysis

Isaiah 62:7 uses repetition and urgency to emphasize persistence. The phrase “give him no rest” is striking, almost bold, urging believers to continue praying without ceasing.

The imagery of Jerusalem being established and praised connects to the idea of God’s kingdom being visible and victorious. It’s not just about a physical city but about the spiritual reality of God’s reign being recognized by all.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

1. Luke 18:1-8 – The parable of the persistent widow illustrates the importance of continually seeking God through prayer, much like the instruction in Isaiah 62:7.
2. Psalm 122:6-7 – “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.” This echoes the call to pray for Jerusalem’s restoration and peace.
3. Revelation 21:2-3 – The vision of the New Jerusalem reflects the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to make His city the praise of the earth.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians, Isaiah 62:7 is a reminder of the power and necessity of prayer. God calls believers to be active participants in His plans by praying for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.

The verse also challenges Christians to persist in prayer, even when the fulfillment of God’s promises seems distant. It encourages a faith that does not grow weary, trusting that God’s timing is perfect.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reveals God’s loving nature in two ways. First, He invites His people to call on Him persistently, showing that He values their partnership in His work. Second, His commitment to restoring Jerusalem and making it a source of praise reflects His unwavering faithfulness and care for His people.

God’s love is active and redemptive. He doesn’t just promise restoration; He involves His people in the process, building their faith and trust in Him along the way.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ fulfills the promise of Isaiah 62:7 in the ultimate sense. Through Him, God’s kingdom is established, and His people are made into a testimony of His glory.

1. Matthew 6:10 – In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught His followers to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” This aligns with the call to persist in prayer for God’s purposes.
2. Hebrews 7:25 – Jesus is described as continually interceding for His people, reflecting the role of watchmen and intercessors described in Isaiah 62.
3. Revelation 5:9-10 – Through His sacrifice, Jesus makes His people “a kingdom and priests to serve our God,” fulfilling the promise of God’s people becoming a source of praise on the earth.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge your perspective on prayer?
2. In what areas of your life do you need to “give God no rest” through persistent prayer?
3. What does it mean for you to be a part of God’s plan to bring His glory to the world?
4. How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s faithfulness, even when His promises seem delayed?
5. How can you encourage others to join you in praying for God’s purposes to be fulfilled?

Isaiah 62:7 is a powerful call to persistent faith and prayer. It reminds us that God’s promises are sure and that He invites us to be active participants in His redemptive work. Through Christ, this call is fulfilled as we pray for and live out the reality of God’s kingdom on earth, trusting in His unwavering love and faithfulness.