Isaiah 49:1-2 "The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother's womb..."

"The Lord called me before I was born, while I was in my mother's womb he named me. He made my mouth like a sharp sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me a polished arrow, in his quiver he hid me away" (Isaiah 49:1-2).

Question:

At a prayer meeting, someone felt strongly I needed this verse.

Comment:

This passage describes a call to prophecy. We all have a spiritual purpose, established before we come into human form. In this case, the writer describes his spiritual purpose as “speaking the Word”—sending the truth outward like “a sharp sword” or “a polished arrow.” As the passage continues, it is clear that the prophet feels he has failed in his mission—"I have labored in vain" (Isa. 49:4)—yet he still believes that the initial calling will be vindicated. "I will give you," he is assured by the Lord of his being, "as a light to the nations." So this passage is an affirmation that whatever our spiritual purpose may be, it will not be diminished or destroyed by the challenges of human life. Our ultimate Truth shines even through the appearances of defeat.   Blessings!

Rev. Ed