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“I, because of what they have planned and done, am about to come and gather the people of all nations and languages, and they will come and see my glory. I will set a sign among them, and I will send some of those who survive to the nations. . . They will proclaim my glory among the nations. And they will bring all your people, from all the nations, to my holy mountain in Jerusalem as an offering to the LORD—on horses, in chariots and wagons, and on mules and camels,” says the LORD.

The people of Isaiah’s time were about to go through one of the darkest times in their nation’s history. The prophet Isaiah warned that God was about to send them into captivity because of their repeated rebellious and sinful behavior. Their future seemed bleak at best.

As Isaiah closed his book of warnings and judgment, he offered hope. He pointed to a bright future that didn’t seem possible. God would disperse his people to the different nations of the world just as he warned, but this act of judgment would bring about an unexpected positive result. As God’s people went out into the world, he would use them to share his glory with all people.

Isaiah paints a picture of the return of the people that would be spectacular. The people left in disgrace—in chains, but they would return in triumph with wagons and chariots and animals and wealth. God would bless his people beyond their wildest expectations.

God also has blessing for you beyond what you can imagine. Even today it is a challenge to describe God’s glory. How can we comprehend an enduring future that lasts for eternity? Look to the cross of Jesus. It is there that God showed his ultimate love by securing our future with him.

Looking into the future and completely understanding what God has in store for us is impossible. But as we take time to meditate on his Word, he grows our faith and understanding of what he has done for us. One thing we can know for sure is that our future with God is bright. May this give you hope as you face the difficulties of each new day with confidence.

Dear Lord, show me your glory. Help me continue to grow in understanding of your love for me and your will for my life. Thank you for letting me look to the future with confidence. Amen.

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All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.