Isa 63:7

Isa 63:7  I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, and the praises of the LORD, according to all that the LORD hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which he hath bestowed on them according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his lovingkindnesses.  Isaiah 63 describes the day of the LORD’s vengeance. This prophecy pictures the Messiah coming as the avenger (v.1-6). The same Messiah that destroys the unbeliever saves the believer (v.4). How do I know the prophecy is about the Messiah’s vengeance on the world? The prophecy opens with a question: “Who is this who comes from Edom, in crimsoned garments from Bozrah, he who is splendid in his apparel, marching in the greatness of his strength?” (v.1). Here is the reply: “It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save” (v.1b). The prophet asked: “Why is your apparel red, and your garments like his who treads in the winepress?” (v.2). The reply: “I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment” (v.3). We see the similar words repeated in Revelation 19:13 and 15 and refer to Christ: “And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and His name is called The Word of God ….. and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.” The prophet Isaiah beholds the Messiah returning in triumph from the conquest of His enemies, of whom Edom was a type. Edom represents all the enemies of God. How can we reconcile the love of God and His wrath? Most people remember the wrath of God. But, what caused God to be angry with the people He loved? Isaiah wrote: “But they rebelled, and vexed his holy Spirit: therefore he was turned to be their enemy, and he fought against them” (v.10). They rebelled; they forgot how God had loved them. Isaiah reminded them of the love of God: “I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, and the praises of the LORD, according to all that the LORD hath bestowed on us” (v.7). Indeed, we should always remember God’s lovingkindnesses. What causes one to forget God’s lovingkindnesses? One reason I can think of is ingratitude. What causes ingratitude? Forgetfulness! Israel had forgotten God’s lovingkindnesses towards them. It is the same everywhere! Citizens forget the good things their governments have done for them. So, they complain about the things the government should have done for them. Even a genie could grant only three wishes to its master; so it is impossible for any government to grant every wish their citizens demand of them. Likewise in the family, children complain the things their parents did not do or give them; they forget the thousands of things their parents have done and given to them. We will not begin to praise God until we first begin to remember His lovingkindnesses. Isaiah says: “I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the LORD.” When we are feeling downcast, reflect on the lovingkindnesses of God. Think of the times God had delivered us from our troubles. He will do it again this time. We need to trust in Him (Proverbs 3:5-6). God is always loving and kind: “The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy” (Psalm 145:8). Think of the LORD’s goodness!