0571. Israel's Distress–in Captivity

Israel’s Distress–in Captivity

"When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

"Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as the streams in the South" (Psa_126:1,Psa_126:4).

This Psalm sees Israel’s distress in her captivity, but it anticipates the deliverance that shall come to Zion when her captivity is turned again; when she is restored from her anguish, unto her own land.

The 61st chapter of Isaiah comes to mind. Christ quoted from this chapter in the city of Nazareth. The opening verses, had a partial fulfillment in Christ’s day; but their complete fulfillment awaits His second advent. The verses read: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach good tidings." "He hath sent Me to proclaim liberty to the captives and to open the prison to them that are bound." These words parallel Psalms 126. But that is not all–God will yet appoint unto Israel "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness." Israel shall see her captivity turned again; her walls shall be built up; her desolations shall be repaired. Then will Israel’s mouth be filled with laughter, and her tongue with singing. Then will she sound forth among the nations, "The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad."

Israel in her distress is sowing in tears, but she shall reap in joy.

"He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him."

Autor: R.E. NEIGHBOUR