Definition: For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, [those] nations shall be utterly wasted.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this powerful verse from Isaiah 60:12. It's a warning about the consequences of rejecting God. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that if people stop worshipping or following God and don’t live according to His will, they will face serious problems – both for themselves and for the entire world. It’s a dramatic warning about the potential for ruin. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “For the nation and kingdom that will not serve thee…” This refers to nations or peoples who are not devoted to God. Think of countries that aren't following His laws, aren’t worshipping Him, or haven't embraced His teachings. “…shall perish.” This means they will be destroyed – lost and gone. It's a complete end. “Yea, [those] nations shall be utterly wasted.” This is the most impactful part. "Utterly wasted" suggests something beyond just being damaged or suffering; it implies a complete loss of everything good, like their resources, prosperity, and even their future. It’s a very severe consequence for rejecting God. In simpler terms: Imagine a community that doesn't believe in you, and they stop respecting you, supporting you, or following your lead. That community will eventually collapse – it won't thrive, and its members will be lost. The Bigger Picture (What it’s about): This verse is often interpreted as a call to faithfulness and obedience to God. It’s a reminder that: God demands respect: He expects us to honor Him and live according to His principles. Ignoring Him leads to destruction: Rejecting God's guidance can have devastating consequences for individuals, communities, and the whole world. Important Note: This verse is often used in a prophetic sense, meaning it’s about future events. It’s not necessarily about our immediate situation but rather about a time when we must turn to God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some examples of how this verse might be used in modern times? Discuss what it means for us as individuals to live a life pleasing to God?