Isaiah 63:7 – “I will tell of the kindnesses of the Lord, the deeds for which he is to be praised, according to all the Lord has done for us—yes, the many good things he has done for Israel, according to his compassion and many kindnesses.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Isaiah 63:7 marks a shift in tone from the preceding verses, moving from judgment to a reflection on God’s mercy and faithfulness. The prophet commits to recounting God’s “kindnesses,” highlighting His actions that deserve praise. These deeds stem from God’s character—His compassion and steadfast love.

This verse encourages believers to remember and declare God’s goodness. It is an invitation to reflect on how God has acted in history and in personal lives, always out of His deep care for His people. The phrase “many good things” emphasizes the abundance of God’s blessings, not earned by Israel’s merit but given because of His grace.

Historical Context

Isaiah spoke these words during a time when Israel was experiencing the consequences of their rebellion. Yet, despite their failures, Isaiah reminded them of God’s faithfulness in the past—delivering them from Egypt, providing in the wilderness, and establishing them in the Promised Land.

This verse reflects a common pattern in the Old Testament: Israel would stray from God, experience His discipline, and then remember His goodness, leading to repentance and restoration. It serves as a call to gratitude and trust, even in difficult times.

Theological Implications

This verse reveals the unchanging character of God. He is compassionate, faithful, and generous, even when His people are unfaithful. It highlights that God’s kindness is not based on our performance but on His grace and love.

It also underscores the importance of remembering and proclaiming God’s works. Faith is strengthened when we recount what God has done, both individually and collectively as His people. This practice draws our focus away from present struggles and toward God’s unwavering goodness.

Literary Analysis

The verse is poetic and declarative, beginning with the personal resolve, “I will tell.” This emphasizes the active choice to praise God, even in challenging circumstances. The repetition of words like “kindnesses” and “compassion” draws attention to God’s loving nature.

The structure builds from personal reflection to communal recognition—what God has done for “us” and for “Israel.” This broadens the scope, reminding readers that God’s goodness extends to all His people, not just individuals.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Psalm 103:2-5: “Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases…” This psalm mirrors the theme of remembering God’s kindness.
• Lamentations 3:22-23: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning.” This speaks to God’s enduring faithfulness.
• Deuteronomy 7:9: “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations.” This reminds us of God’s covenantal kindness.
• Ephesians 1:3-8: Paul praises God for the spiritual blessings in Christ, echoing Isaiah’s gratitude for God’s abundant grace.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Isaiah 63:7 reminds believers to take time to reflect on God’s faithfulness in their lives. It encourages a posture of gratitude, even when circumstances are difficult. By focusing on God’s “kindnesses,” Christians can find hope and strength to face challenges.

The verse also calls Christians to share God’s goodness with others. Telling of His deeds not only honors God but also inspires and encourages others in their faith journey.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse highlights God’s love through His actions. His kindnesses are not abstract but tangible, demonstrated in the ways He provides, protects, and delivers His people. His compassion shows that He deeply cares for His children, even when they falter.

God’s love is seen not only in grand acts of deliverance but also in the everyday blessings we often take for granted. By remembering and recounting these, we are reminded of how intimately involved He is in our lives.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Isaiah 63:7 points to Jesus Christ, the ultimate expression of God’s kindness and compassion. Through Jesus, God provided the greatest act of love—salvation for humanity.

• John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…” This reflects God’s kindness in offering redemption.
• Ephesians 2:4-7: “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ…” This passage ties God’s kindness directly to His saving work in Jesus.
• Romans 8:32: “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” This speaks to God’s abundant provision through Christ.

Jesus is the fulfillment of all God’s promises and the embodiment of His compassion and kindness.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What specific “kindnesses” of God can you recount in your own life?
2. How does remembering God’s goodness help you trust Him in difficult times?
3. In what ways can you share God’s deeds with others to encourage their faith?
4. How does reflecting on Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection deepen your understanding of God’s compassion?
5. How can this verse inspire you to live with gratitude and hope today?

Isaiah 63:7 is a beautiful reminder of God’s faithful and compassionate nature. It calls us to reflect on His goodness, proclaim His deeds, and trust in His love, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. May we respond with gratitude and a commitment to sharing His kindness with others.