Old Testament
Isaiah 48:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God expresses His commitment to His people despite their shortcomings.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
For my name's sake, I will hold back my anger, and for my praise, I will restrain myself for you, so that I do not cut you off.
For my name’s sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses His commitment to His people despite their shortcomings. He indicates that His anger is held back not because they deserve it, but for the sake of His own name and reputation. God prioritizes His glory and the relationship with His people over immediate judgment. This reflects His mercy and patience, showing that He desires to give them a chance to repent and turn back to Him. The phrase 'cut you off' suggests a complete separation, which God is willing to avoid for the sake of His praise. This highlights the tension between divine justice and mercy, illustrating that while God is just, He also desires to show grace and maintain a relationship with His people. It serves as a reminder that God's actions are often motivated by His character and purpose rather than human merit. Explore related repentance.
Key themes
Related topics
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 48:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on God's mercy in our own lives. When we face challenges or feel distant from God, we can remember that He is patient and desires to maintain a relationship with us. We should strive to respond to His grace with repentance and gratitude, recognizing His love and commitment to us.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 48:9 mean?
Isaiah 48:9 means that God is holding back His anger towards His people not because they deserve it, but for the sake of His own name and reputation. It highlights His mercy and desire to maintain a relationship with them.
What is the meaning of 'cut you off' in Isaiah 48:9?
The phrase 'cut you off' in Isaiah 48:9 refers to a complete separation from God. It indicates that God is willing to avoid this separation to preserve His relationship with His people.
How does Isaiah 48:9 reflect God's mercy?
Isaiah 48:9 reflects God's mercy by showing that He chooses to restrain His anger and not punish His people immediately. This demonstrates His desire to give them an opportunity to turn back to Him.
What themes are present in Isaiah 48:9?
The themes present in Isaiah 48:9 include God's mercy, divine patience, the importance of His glory, the call for repentance, and the balance between judgment and grace.
The Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You
The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.
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