Definition: Surely, shall [one] say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: [even] to him shall [men] come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 45:24. It's a really powerful and somewhat poetic statement about God’s character and His ability to protect Himself. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse essentially says that God is certainly righteous and strong enough to defend Himself against anyone who opposes Him. It suggests a promise of protection and that even those who are angry at God will be humbled by His power. Let's unpack it word-by-word (a little bit): “Isaiah 45:24” : This is the verse itself – a passage from the Old Testament book of Isaiah. “Surely, shall [one] say…” : This phrase emphasizes that this isn’t just an attempt to deny God's righteousness; it’s a definite statement. “Surely” means “certainly” or "definitely." “[one]” : This refers to God himself – the ultimate source of justice and rightness. “in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall [men] come…” : This is the core of the message. It means that God has a deep, unwavering sense of right and justice. He possesses these qualities, and he’s capable of wielding them. "To him shall men come" - this suggests that God is prepared to defend Himself against those who challenge Him. “and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.” : This is the key part – it describes how people react when they are angry at God. “Incensed” means angered, furious, or enraged. “Shall be ashamed” means they will be humbled and feel inadequate in their anger. So, what does it mean practically? It’s a promise of divine protection. It's saying that God isn't going to let anyone who is against Him win. He's strong enough to stand up for himself and his principles, even when people are trying to provoke him or make him look bad. Overall Interpretation: This verse offers comfort and a sense of security. It’s about the idea that God isn’t easily defeated and that His righteousness will prevail, even in the face of opposition. It's a reminder that He is sovereign and powerful. Important Note: This is a complex passage with many layers of meaning. Different interpretations exist, but this explanation gives you a good starting point for understanding its core message. --- Do you want me to: Explain it in a different way (e.g., using an analogy)? Discuss the context of the verse within the Old Testament? Explore what this verse might mean for believers today?