Isaiah 61:3. “To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion; to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.”
GIVE THEM. Instead of the bitter ashes and long centuries of persecution – The beauty of being undeniably loved is on them as a crown. Instead of the tears of mourning because of fierce opposition – Gladness fills the homes and hearts of a nation long trodden down.
Instead of despair that comes from deep within, thinking all is lost – True righteousness, like a stand of beautiful trees, now exalts the nation. From ancient places long forgotten, destroyed by sin’s great cost – Rise new buildings and homes for families who were vagabonds for generations.
In a different way and for different reasons similar blessings came to me – For I have been given, and many others like me, the helmet of salvation. Instead of the guilt and grief of sin, there is rejoicing as we sing – And there has been experienced the truth of God’s Word – worthy of acceptation.
The future holds many great promises in spite of the darkness of the day – And the sorrows of this present life give way to God’s healing balm. Joy has taken the place of fear and instead of complaint there’s praise – The spirit of heaviness has fled, while taking its place is a great calm.
The garment of righteousness fits just right for those who live by faith – Hearts are warmed in fellowship when in prayer and the Word, we’re fed. Evidence of, and the effects of grace, are displayed on believers’ face – And the members of the Body coordinate, guided by the Living Head.
Like a stand of trees or a fruitful orchard, the saints do demonstrate – The grace and faithfulness of God, to those who on Christ believe – For all the world to see if they will, is the Christ who our sins did take –
And our lives are calm in the midst of storms for we have Him received.
“From my heart O God, I give thanks for the change Thou dost make in the souls and lives of those who come to Thee by faith in Christ. May we all represent the grace of God in unmistakable ways so those who do not know Thee will come to believe on Thee. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”