Isaiah 26:1-11

Judah Will Celebrate

26:1 At that time this song will be sung in the land of Judah:

“We have a strong city!

The Lord’s deliverance, like walls and a rampart, makes it secure.

26:2 Open the gates so a righteous nation can enter –

one that remains trustworthy.

26:3 You keep completely safe the people who maintain their faith,

for they trust in you.

26:4 Trust in the Lord from this time forward,

even in Yah, the Lord, an enduring protector!

26:5 Indeed, the Lord knocks down those who live in a high place,

he brings down an elevated town;

he brings it down to the ground,

he throws it down to the dust.

26:6 It is trampled underfoot

by the feet of the oppressed,

by the soles of the poor.”

God’s People Anticipate Vindication

26:7 The way of the righteous is level,

the path of the righteous that you make is straight.

26:8 Yes, as your judgments unfold,

O Lord, we wait for you.

We desire your fame and reputation to grow.

26:9 I look for you during the night,

my spirit within me seeks you at dawn,

for when your judgments come upon the earth,

those who live in the world learn about justice.

26:10 If the wicked are shown mercy,

they do not learn about justice.

Even in a land where right is rewarded, they act unjustly;

they do not see the Lord’s majesty revealed.

26:11 O Lord, you are ready to act,

but they don’t even notice.

They will see and be put to shame by your angry judgment against humankind,

yes, fire will consume your enemies.