“So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11)
In this talk, I would like to discuss Isaiah 55:11 — a verse that places great emphasisis on the power and certainty of God’s word. It shows us how God’s word, characterised by its creative force, unwavering promises, and purpose-driven outcomes, stands firm throughout biblical history and in contemporary faith. In this brief talk, I will attempt to illustrate the fulfilment of God’s will through scriptural examples, particularly focusing on the mission of Jesus Christ. The primary goal is to encourage personal application by urging faith in the transforming power of the Scriptures, trust in God’s promises, and living a life in line with His divine purposes.
Let’s consider the power inherent in the word of God. From the very beginning of the Scriptures, we see that God’s word has creative power. In Genesis, God spoke the world into existence. “And God said, Let there be light: and there was light.” (Genesis 1:3) This creative power is not limited to the physical creation. In fact, it extends to the spiritual and moral realms as well. When God speaks, things happen. His word is not just a collection of sounds or written symbols; it is a great force that brings about real change and transformation.
Isaiah 55:11 assures us that God’s word will not return to Him void. This means that whatever God has spoken will come to pass. His promises are sure and unfailing. In this dark world where human promises are often broken, God’s promises stand firm. Consider the many promises found in the Scriptures: promises of forgiveness, of peace, of eternal life. Each of these promises comes with the assurance that they will be fulfilled.
In his letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul wrote: “For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” (2 Corinthians 1:20) When God says something, we can trust that it will happen. This certainty should give us great comfort and confidence in our faith.
The verse also tells us that God’s word will “accomplish that which I please.” God’s will is always accomplished through His word. This means that His purposes will be fulfilled, regardless of human opposition or circumstances. We see this throughout the history of salvation. God’s plan for humanity, from the promise of a Saviour in Genesis to the fulfilment in Jesus Christ, demonstrates that His will is always done.
Let’s consider the mission of Jesus Christ. God sent His word, His Son, into the world to accomplish a specific purpose: our redemption. Despite opposition and seeming defeat at the cross, Jesus accomplished the Father’s will perfectly. In John 19:30, Jesus declared, “It is finished.” This accomplishment was foretold by God and brought to fruition through His word.
Our verse in Isaiah also states that God’s word will “prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” The prosperity here is not necessarily material wealth but the success and flourishing of God’s intended purposes. When God sends His word, it is to achieve something specific, and it will succeed in that endeavour. This is evident in the spread of the Gospel. Despite persecution and trials, the message of Jesus Christ continues to be spread throughout the world and it continues to change lives.
What does this mean for us today? First, we must have faith in the power of God’s word. When we read the Scriptures, we are engaging with the living word of God, which has the power to change us from the inside out. We should approach the our Scriptures with reverence and expectancy, knowing that it is not just an ancient book but an active influence in our lives.
Second, we must trust in the promises of God. In moments of doubt or difficulty, we can cling to His promises, knowing that they are sure and will be fulfilled. This trust will give us peace and strength in our daily walk with Him.
Third, we should sincerely make sure our lives are in accord with God’s will and His Commandments. As His word accomplishes His purposes, we should seek to be part of that work. By living in obedience to His Commandments and following His guidance, we become instruments through which His word can prosper.
In conclusion, Isaiah 55:11 is a powerful reminder of the efficacy and reliability of God’s word. It will not return void, it will accomplish His will, and it will prosper in the thing for which it was sent. Let us hold fast to this truth, allowing it to deepen our faith and guide our lives. May we be ever mindful of the power, certainty, and prosperity of God’s word, and may it transform us and accomplish His purposes through us.
I testify that God’s word is true, that His promises are sure, and that His purposes will be accomplished. May we all find strength and encouragement in this assurance. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
