Isaiah 11:3b-5 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 11:3b-5 on biblegateway.com
Verse 3His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; Verse 4but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall kill the wicked. Verse 5Righteousness shall be the belt around his waist, and faithfulness the belt around his loins.
Devotion
Isaiah’s prophecy anticipates Mary’s Magnificat as he sings this chorus that announces God’s favor for those who are poor and meek. Without a doubt, Isaiah says, it is God who looks upon the whole earth with justice and righteousness. No more do those who have little power need to fear those with great power. For whom is this good news today? Who are those who need the encouragement of this prophet’s words?
Prayer
Holy God, tender and trustworthy, help us see the world as you see it and to treat others with your justice. Where we have belittled others or sought our own advantage, forgive us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.