Old Testament
Isaiah 37:26
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Haven't you heard? I planned this long ago. I designed it in ancient times. Now I've brought it about — using you to crush fortified cities into piles of rubble.
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Hast thou not heard long ago, how I have done it; and of ancient times, that I have formed it? now have I brought it to pass, that thou shouldest be to lay waste defenced cities into ruinous heaps.
What Isaiah 37:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 37:26, God is speaking to the people, reminding them of His sovereignty and control over history. He emphasizes that His plans were established long ago, indicating that the events unfolding are not random but part of a divine strategy. The reference to 'fortified cities' being turned into rubble signifies God's power to dismantle strongholds and defenses that oppose His will. This verse serves as a reassurance that God is actively involved in the world, orchestrating events according to His purpose. It highlights the idea that what seems like a crisis or a threat is actually under God's authority, and He can use even the mightiest forces to fulfill His plans. The message is clear: God is in control, and His intentions will come to fruition, regardless of human opposition or the strength of fortified cities.
How to apply Isaiah 37:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's overarching plan, especially during difficult times. It reminds us that God has a purpose for everything and that He can turn challenges into opportunities for His glory. We should remain faithful and confident in His control over our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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Illustrated scene from Isaiah's story: The LORD Defends Jerusalem (Isaiah 37:1–38)
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Isaiah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Keep studying Isaiah 37:26
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 37:26 mean?
Isaiah 37:26 conveys God's message about His control over history, stating that He planned events long ago and is now executing His will by using powerful forces to dismantle strong defenses.
What is the significance of 'fortified cities' in Isaiah 37:26?
The term 'fortified cities' in Isaiah 37:26 symbolizes strongholds that oppose God's will, illustrating His power to bring down even the mightiest defenses when fulfilling His divine plans.
How does Isaiah 37:26 relate to God's power?
Isaiah 37:26 highlights God's power by showing that He can turn strong cities into rubble, demonstrating that no human strength can stand against His divine authority.
What can we learn from Isaiah 37:26?
From Isaiah 37:26, we learn to trust in God's overarching plan and recognize that He can use any situation, even crises, to fulfill His purposes and bring about His glory.
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