Definition: I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to [him that is] far off, and to [him that is] near, saith the LORD; and I will heal him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 57:19. It's a pretty beautiful and insightful message about God’s love and perspective. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying to someone who is far away (or perhaps even distant), “I will offer peace.” But he’s also looking at them with compassion and care, offering healing and comfort. Let's unpack it word by word: “I create the fruit of the lips…” : This is a metaphor. "Fruit of the lips" refers to words – spoken words, expressions, and even judgments. It suggests that our words can be hurtful or damaging. “…Peace, peace to [him that is] far off, and to [him that is] near…” : This is the core of the message. God is offering peace to those who are distant . “[Him that is] far off” means someone who’s separated from us – perhaps someone struggling with a difficult situation, or someone who lives in a different culture. “[Him that is] near” refers to those close to us, our loved ones. “Saith the LORD…” : This is God speaking directly. Putting it all together: God isn't just offering peace passively. He's actively creating it for those who are distant. He’s using his words – his expressions and judgments – to bring comfort and healing. It suggests that even though someone might be far away, God is still working to soothe their pain and offer them a sense of calm. The Bigger Picture: This verse speaks to the importance of kindness and compassion in our communication. It’s about recognizing that everyone is struggling, even if they don't show it. It reminds us that God cares deeply for all people, no matter how far away they are. In short, this verse emphasizes God’s love, his ability to comfort, and his willingness to offer healing to anyone, regardless of their distance. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of the verse in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or example from the Bible?