Old Testament
Isaiah 57:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
I was angry because of his greedy sin, so I struck him. I hid my face in anger, but he kept stubbornly going his own way.
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For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart.
What Isaiah 57:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God expresses His anger towards a person who is consumed by greed and selfish desires. Despite God's punishment, which was meant to correct him, the individual continued to stubbornly pursue his own sinful ways. This highlights the struggle between divine discipline and human resistance to change. God's anger is not arbitrary; it stems from a desire for justice and righteousness. The phrase 'hid my face' suggests a withdrawal of God's favor, indicating that the person’s actions have consequences. The verse serves as a reminder that while God may discipline us for our wrongdoings, we have the choice to either repent and turn back to Him or persist in our ways, which can lead to further separation from God.
How to apply Isaiah 57:17 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and recognize areas where greed or selfishness may be leading us astray. It serves as a reminder to be open to God's correction and to seek His guidance rather than stubbornly following our own desires. Embracing humility and repentance can lead to a more fulfilling relationship with God.
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Keep studying Isaiah 57:17
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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 57:17 teach about God's anger?
Isaiah 57:17 reveals that God's anger is a response to human greed and sin. It shows that God's discipline is not arbitrary but is rooted in His desire for justice and righteousness. The verse illustrates that when individuals persist in their sinful ways despite God's correction, they risk further separation from Him.
How can I apply Isaiah 57:17 to my life?
This verse encourages self-reflection on areas of greed or selfishness in your life. It serves as a reminder to be receptive to God's guidance and correction. By embracing humility and seeking repentance, you can strengthen your relationship with God and avoid the consequences of stubbornly following your own desires.
What does 'hid my face' mean in Isaiah 57:17?
The phrase 'hid my face' in Isaiah 57:17 signifies God's withdrawal of favor due to the individual's persistent sin. It indicates that when we choose to ignore God's guidance and continue in our wrongdoing, we may experience a sense of separation from Him, which can lead to spiritual consequences.
What is the significance of stubbornness in Isaiah 57:17?
Stubbornness in Isaiah 57:17 highlights the human tendency to resist change and ignore divine correction. Despite God's attempts to guide and discipline, the individual continues to pursue their own sinful path. This serves as a warning about the dangers of hardening one's heart against God's will.
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