65:23
We often criticize the so-called prosperity gospel, and there is much to criticize. However, we must not throw out the proverbial baby with the bathwater. God’s plans actually are to prosper His people. This verse outlines some of the aspects of that prosperity. Our labour will bear fruit, our children will be blessed and we ourselves will be blessed. So where does the prosperity gospel go wrong? It lays an undue weight on material wealth, and sees the gospel as a means to gaining material wealth. Jesus said “seek first the kingdom and His righteousness and these things will be added unto you”, He did not say “seek first the kingdom and His righteousness so that these things will be added unto you”. The prosperity gospel makes this fundamental mistake. It also neglects the fact that God’s greatest concern is to deal with the sin in our lives, and to involve us in His work of saving others. And this latter aspect may well involve us in suffering.
65:24,25
God will answer their prayers. For a long time God had seemed to be silent, He was deaf to their cries. But a time will come when He hears and answers our prayers quickly. And there will be great peace in the land. Note that there is no redemption for the serpent! He will continue to eat dust. There will be no more harm on the mountain of the Lord.
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