Old Testament
Isaiah 42:14
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I have kept silent for a long time; I have been still and held myself back. But now I will cry out like a woman in labor; I will destroy and devour at once.
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I have long time holden my peace; I have been still, and refrained myself: now will I cry like a travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once.
What Isaiah 42:14 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 42:14, God expresses a shift from silence to action. For a long time, He has been patient and restrained, allowing the world to continue in its ways without immediate intervention. However, the imagery of a woman in labor signifies a time of intense urgency and impending change. Just as labor brings forth new life, God's cry indicates that He is ready to act decisively against injustice and sin. This verse highlights God's commitment to His people and His readiness to bring about transformation, even if it means destruction of the old ways. The metaphor of labor also suggests that the process may be painful but ultimately leads to a new beginning. God’s silence does not mean inactivity; rather, it is a preparation for a powerful response to the needs of His creation.
How to apply Isaiah 42:14 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's timing. Even when it seems like He is silent, He is preparing for a significant change. We should remain faithful and patient, knowing that God will act in His perfect timing to bring justice and renewal in our lives and the world around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
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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 42:14 mean about God's silence?
Isaiah 42:14 illustrates God's long period of silence and restraint, indicating His patience in allowing the world to operate without immediate intervention. This silence is not inactivity; rather, it is a preparation for a decisive action against injustice and sin. The verse emphasizes that God's timing is intentional and that His eventual response will be powerful and transformative.
How does the imagery of a woman in labor relate to God's actions?
The imagery of a woman in labor in Isaiah 42:14 symbolizes urgency and the inevitability of change. Just as labor signifies the painful yet necessary process of bringing new life into the world, God's cry indicates that He is ready to act decisively. This metaphor highlights that while the process may involve destruction of old ways, it ultimately leads to renewal and transformation.
What can we learn about God's character from this verse?
Isaiah 42:14 reveals God's character as patient yet powerful. It shows that He is deeply aware of injustice and suffering, and while He may seem silent, He is preparing for a significant intervention. This verse reassures us that God is committed to His people and will act in His perfect timing to bring about justice and transformation.
How can Isaiah 42:14 encourage us in difficult times?
Isaiah 42:14 encourages us to trust in God's timing during difficult times. It reminds us that even when God seems silent, He is actively preparing for a significant change. This verse inspires patience and faith, assuring us that God will ultimately bring justice and renewal in our lives and the world, even if the process may be challenging.
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