What is the meaning of Isaiah 26:15? You have enlarged the nation, O LORD • Isaiah speaks as a worshiper, celebrating how the LORD Himself has multiplied His covenant people. • From the promise to Abraham—“I will make you into a great nation” (Genesis 12:2)—through the explosive growth in Egypt (Exodus 1:7) and into the settled land (Deuteronomy 1:10), Scripture repeatedly shows God increasing Israel’s numbers. • The praise is directed to “O LORD,” underscoring that population growth is not mere demographics but divine faithfulness (Isaiah 9:3). You have enlarged the nation • The repetition drives the truth home: God’s work is undeniable and ongoing. • In poetry, repeating a line intensifies the thought (cf. Psalm 29:1–2). Isaiah piles up words to make sure no one misses the miracle of expansion. • For readers today, the echo reminds us that God often reiterates His promises so they lodge deep in our hearts (Isaiah 46:9–10). You have gained glory for Yourself • Every blessing God pours out on His people ultimately spotlights His own greatness (Psalm 115:1). • At the Red Sea He said, “I will gain glory for Myself” (Exodus 14:4); here, Isaiah affirms the same pattern. • God’s glory and His people’s good are never in competition; when He exalts His name, His people flourish (Isaiah 60:21; Ezekiel 36:22–23). • The verse reminds believers to trace every victory back to its true source and give credit where it’s due. You have extended all the borders of the land • The Lord not only multiplies the people; He also provides the space they need. Under David and Solomon, Israel’s territory stretched from the Euphrates to the borders of Egypt (2 Samuel 8:1–14; 1 Kings 4:21). • This line also looks forward. God pledged Abraham land “from the river of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates” (Genesis 15:18), and prophets like Zechariah anticipated even broader security and blessing (Zechariah 2:1–5). • Extending borders speaks of protection, provision, and fulfilled promise. When God enlarges terrain, He is safeguarding His people’s future and showcasing His covenant reliability. summary Isaiah 26:15 is a fourfold celebration of God’s covenant faithfulness. He multiplies His people, underscores the fact with emphatic repetition, gains matchless glory through every act, and secures ample territory for them. The verse invites us to recognize every increase—of people, influence, or opportunity—as evidence of the LORD’s hand and to respond with fresh gratitude and confidence in His unchanging promises. |
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