Isaiah 38:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 38:20
20 The LORD was ready to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 38 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of grace, prayer, holiness. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 38:20
20 The LORD was ready to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD.
Analysis
The declaration "The LORD was ready to save me" attributes deliverance entirely to God's gracious initiative. The resolution "therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all the days of our life in the house of the LORD" commits to perpetual worship and testimony. The plural "we" involves the community in celebration—personal deliverance becomes corporate worship. "All the days of our life" promises lifelong gratitude, not merely temporary emotion. Worship in God's house publicizes thanksgiving, encouraging others' faith.
Historical Context
Temple worship included thanksgiving psalms with instrumental accompaniment. Hezekiah's commitment to ongoing worship demonstrated that deliverance produced lasting devotion.
Reflection
- How does recognizing God's readiness to save produce lasting gratitude versus temporary relief?
- What does lifelong commitment to testimony teach about proper response to deliverance?
- How can we make corporate worship and testimony part of our regular spiritual practice?
Word Studies
- Save: יָשַׁע (Yasha) H3467 - To save, deliver, rescue
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 116:2, 145:2, 150:4