A thought for today
The prophet describes people going out in joy and being led forth in peace, while mountains and hills burst into song. It is a picture of creation rejoicing with God's people. Let joy lead your day.
About Isaiah 55:12
The story behind it
Isaiah 55 closes the section of the book (chapters 40 to 55) addressed to God's people in Babylonian exile. It begins with the invitation 'Come, everyone who thirsts' and describes God's word doing what he sends it to do. Verses 12 and 13 end with a picture of joyful return.
What it means
Verses 10 and 11 say God's word is like rain and snow that water the earth and do not return empty. Verse 12 describes the result: his people go out in joy, led in peace, while mountains sing and trees clap their hands. Verse 13 replaces thorn and briar with cypress and myrtle. Most readers see a return from exile and a renewed creation.
Why this verse: Joy
Joy here is big enough to include the world around you. If joy feels distant, this verse gives you a picture to hold on to: a life led out in peace, with creation joining the song.
Keep reading
Read it in other translations
American Standard Version (ASV)
For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing; and all the trees of the fields shall clap their hands.
Berean Standard Bible (BSB)
You will indeed go out with joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.
