Introduction

Isaiah 11:10–16: Today we continue the theme from yesterday’s reading (Isaiah 11:1–9). These verses give us a detailed description of the future restoration of Israel and Judah and the reign of a new king from the royal line of David. The forthcoming return of those who had been exiled is compared to the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt (Exodus 13:17—15:21).

Today’s Key Verse: Isaiah 11:10 GNT

A day is coming when the new king from the royal line of David will be a symbol to the nations. They will gather in his royal city and give him honor.

Read

10 A day is coming when the new king from the royal line of David will be a symbol to the nations. They will gather in his royal city and give him honor. 11 When that day comes, the Lord will once again use his power and bring back home those of his people who are left in Assyria and Egypt, in the lands of Pathros, Ethiopia,[a] Elam, Babylonia, and Hamath, and in the coastlands and on the islands of the sea. 12 The Lord will raise a signal flag to show the nations that he is gathering together again the scattered people of Israel and Judah and bringing them back from the four corners of the earth. 13 The kingdom of Israel will not be jealous of Judah any more, and Judah will not be the enemy of Israel. 14 Together they will attack the Philistines on the west and plunder the people who live to the east. They will conquer the people of Edom and Moab, and the people of Ammon will obey them. 15 The Lord will dry up the Gulf of Suez, and he will bring a hot wind to dry up the Euphrates, leaving only seven tiny streams, so that anyone can walk across. 16 There will be a highway out of Assyria for those of his people Israel who have survived there, just as there was for their ancestors when they left Egypt.

Reflect

According to today’s reading, how will the Lord’s power be demonstrated? Reread verses 15 and 16. What will God do to enable the return of the exiles? What does today’s reading teach you about God?

Pray

Holy God, in your everlasting love and care, be a source of strength and comfort to those who have had to leave their land and are living in exile. We pray for your peace and healing and for the restoration of people and their homeland. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Isaiah 12:1–6: A time of singing and praise is envisioned.