Isaiah 59:18,19 - According to what they have done

59:18

If we look at Isaiah as a whole we see both forgiveness for those who call upon the Lord, and judgement upon those who remain stubborn. This applies both to Israel and to the nations. So in this verse we read about God’s wrath on His enemies. We so like to just take the “nice bits” of Isaiah (or any other part of the Bible). This is a big mistake, we must take the whole picture. God will bring retribution, but this is not arbitrary, for it is “according to what they have done.''

59:19

The name of the Lord will be glorified throughout the world. This can be either through receiving mercy, or through receiving judgement. One way or another, all will recognise the glory of the Lord. “He will come like a pent up flood.” For a long time it can seem as if the Lord is doing nothing, as if He is unaware of what is going on, or does not care about it. This is a dangerous thought, and one that will prove false. For suddenly the Lord will act.