This is what the LORD says “In the time of my favor I will answer you, and on the day of salvation I will help you; I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people, to restore the land and to reassign its desolate inheritances.”

Isaiah 49:8

The Lord promises in this passage that He will restore the land of Israel and reassign its desolate inheritances. He promises to release the captives, those in darkness, and lead them beside springs of water. Throughout the book of Isaiah, we see God as the Sovereign Lord who loves His people, leading through judgment and the consequence of sin, into a place of restoration.

What are the “desolate inheritances” in your life – the promises of God that seem empty or desolate in your life? Have you said, like Israel, …My way is hidden from the Lord; my cause is disregarded by my God? (Isaiah 40:27) Isaiah gives us assurance that the Lord never grows tired and that He is always at work in our lives, saying “The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary and His understanding no one can fathom.” (Isaiah 40: 28) Throughout Isaiah, we see God’s faithfulness and restoration to His people. He will indeed restore the “desolate places” of our lives as well.

What in your life appears desolate, barren, or empty? Remember, the Lord promises that He has not disregarded you. He is keenly aware of your needs, and He is at work in restoring your land.

Heavenly Father,

Restore my confidence and trust that You have a great plan for my life. Where I see desolation and barrenness, where I have become disappointed in my plans that have failed, restore my hope in You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen