For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be remembered, nor come into mind. Isaiah 65:17 WEB
In this prophecy, Isaiah gives a vision of God creating a new heaven and a new earth. His inspired words for God’s people promise justice, prosperity, and peace for the faithful.
Isaiah points to a future event for the Israelites in which God calls the wicked to account. He speaks of God punishing the unfaithful and establishing justice for those who serve his will. The prophet writes of long life and joy in the hearts of the righteous.
Some wonder if the statement about forgetting former things means that we will lose our memory of our earthly lives when we arrive in heaven. This does not seem to be the case. The promise most likely refers to forgetting the pain of human suffering because of the goodness of God.
He Will Wipe Every Tear From Their Eyes
We read in Revelation 21:4, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. WEB” These words refer to a prophecy from Isaiah 25:8 that predicts the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
Some scholars assert that the spreading of the gospel message of Jesus began the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy of a new heaven and earth. Revelation 21:1 prophesies the completion of this saying, “Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. NIV”
In addition to predicting a better future, Isaiah’s prophecy gives hope to those who suffer injustice. As new creatures in Christ made righteous through the grace of God and faith in Jesus, we are suited to citizenship in the new heaven and the new earth when we live in obedience to the Lord.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your holy word. Give me wisdom. Help me understand. Forgive me for my failings and lead me to better serve you and your will. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Everlasting Love
