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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 40 - Verse 15

40:15
Behold, the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are counted as the small dust of the balance: behold, he taketh up the isles as a very little thing.

Meaning

This verse from the Book of Isaiah highlights the incomprehensible greatness and power of God. It uses the imagery of a drop of a bucket and small dust on a balance scale to emphasize how insignificant and minuscule the nations are in comparison to Him. The message is clear: no matter how powerful or influential a nation may seem, in the grand scheme of things, they are nothing before the almighty God. The imagery of taking up the isles as a very little thing further reinforces the idea that God's power surpasses all human understanding. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and omnipotence, encouraging readers to trust in His divine plan and surrender to His will. It humbles the reader, reminding them of their place in the universe and the unimaginable power of the God they serve.

Theological Overview

When looking at the theological interpretation of Isaiah 40:15, the verse emphasizes the greatness and majesty of God in contrast to the nations of the earth. The imagery of a drop of water from a bucket and the small dust on a balance serves to highlight the insignificance of the nations in comparison to God's power and sovereignty. This verse conveys a message of God's supreme authority over all the nations of the world. The word "isles" in this verse could refer to distant lands or territories, further emphasizing the comprehensive reach of God's dominion. By using such imagery, the verse reminds believers of the glory and grandeur of God and encourages them to trust in His unfailing power and wisdom.

American Standard Version

Behold, the nations are as a drop of a bucket, and are accounted as the small dust of the balance: Behold, he taketh up the isles as a very little thing.
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