Old Testament
Isaiah 50:2
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"Why was no one there when I came? Why did no one answer when I called? Do you think my arm is too short to rescue you? Do you think I lack the power to save? Look — with a single command I dry up the sea. I turn rivers into deserts where the fish rot and die of thirst."
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Wherefore, when I came, was there no man? when I called, was there none to answer? Is my hand shortened at all, that it cannot redeem? or have I no power to deliver? behold, at my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish stinketh, because there is no water, and dieth for thirst.
What Isaiah 50:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 50:2, God expresses disappointment over the lack of response from His people when He calls for them. He questions why no one is there to answer Him, highlighting His power and ability to save. The imagery of drying up the sea and turning rivers into deserts illustrates His sovereignty over nature and His capability to deliver His people from their troubles. This verse serves as a reminder that God is always ready to help, but His people often fail to recognize or respond to His call. The rhetorical questions emphasize that God's power is not limited; He can rescue and redeem, regardless of the circumstances. This passage encourages believers to trust in God's might and to be attentive to His voice, as He is always willing to intervene in their lives.
How to apply Isaiah 50:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to be attentive to God's call in our lives. We should actively seek to respond to Him, recognizing His power to save and redeem us from our struggles. Trusting in His ability can strengthen our faith and guide our actions.
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 50:2 mean?
Isaiah 50:2 expresses God's disappointment at the lack of response from His people when He calls for them. It emphasizes His power to save and deliver, using imagery of controlling nature to illustrate His sovereignty.
What is the meaning of God's call in Isaiah 50:2?
In Isaiah 50:2, God's call signifies His desire for a relationship with His people and His readiness to help them. The verse highlights the importance of being responsive to God's voice and recognizing His ability to intervene in our lives.
How does Isaiah 50:2 relate to trust in God?
Isaiah 50:2 encourages trust in God by reminding us of His unmatched power to save. It calls believers to be attentive to His voice and to have faith in His willingness to help in times of need.
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