What does "the Holy One of Israel" teach about God's character and faithfulness? Setting the Scene Isaiah’s favorite title for God—“the Holy One of Israel”—also appears on the lips of the psalmist: “Then I will praise You with the harp for Your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing praise to You with the lyre, O Holy One of Israel.” (Psalm 71:22) This single line packs rich truth about who God is and how He treats His people. Key Observations from Psalm 71:22 • The psalmist links God’s holiness (“Holy One of Israel”) with His covenant loyalty (“Your faithfulness”). • Praise is the natural response: holiness and faithfulness ignite worship. • “My God” shows personal relationship; the Holy One is not distant but near. • Musical instruments underscore joy—God’s faithfulness is worth celebrating publicly. What “Holy One of Israel” Reveals about God’s Character • Utter Moral Purity – “Holy” speaks of absolute perfection (Isaiah 6:3). • Covenant Ownership – “of Israel” ties His holiness to a chosen people (Exodus 19:5–6). • Transcendent yet Present – He is above creation yet engages personally with His people (Isaiah 57:15). • Unique and Incomparable – Only He bears this title; idols cannot claim it (Isaiah 40:25). How the Title Underscores God’s Faithfulness • Holiness Guarantees Integrity – Because He is holy, He cannot lie (Numbers 23:19); every promise stands. • Covenant Name Signals Commitment – He bound Himself to Israel; His faithfulness flows from His own character (Deuteronomy 7:9). • Historic Track Record – He redeemed from Egypt (Exodus 14), preserved in exile (Isaiah 43:14), and sent the Messiah (Luke 1:68–72). • Personal Testimony – The psalmist’s life bears witness: rescued from youth to old age (Psalm 71:5–6, 17–18). Scripture Echoes • Isaiah 41:14 – “I will help you… your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel.” • Isaiah 54:5 – “Your Maker is your husband… the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer.” • Habakkuk 3:3 – “God came from Teman, the Holy One from Mount Paran.” • Psalm 89:18 – “For our shield belongs to the LORD, our king to the Holy One of Israel.” Living It Out • Rest in His unchanging promises; His holiness ensures He cannot break them. • Celebrate His faithfulness regularly—sing, testify, remember. • Draw near with confidence; the Holy One has invited you into covenant relationship through Christ (Hebrews 10:19–22). |
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