Book of Isaiah - Chapter 42 - Verse 21
Meaning
When the Bible says "The LORD is well pleased for his righteousness' sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honourable," it is highlighting the importance of righteousness in God's eyes. This verse emphasizes that God takes pleasure in righteousness and upholding the law. God's righteousness is perfect and without fault, and it is through his righteousness that he finds delight. By magnifying the law and making it honorable, God is showing that his standards are high and worthy of respect. This verse serves as a reminder to believers to strive for righteousness and to uphold God's law with honor and reverence. By doing so, we not only please God but also demonstrate our obedience and love for him. This verse encourages us to live a life that reflects God's righteousness and to hold his law in high regard.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the emphasis is on the righteousness of the Lord, which brings Him pleasure. The Hebrew word for "well pleased" can also be translated as "delighted" or "satisfied," indicating the deep satisfaction God finds in His righteousness. The word "righteousness" in this context refers to God's moral purity and justice. It is his righteousness that motivates Him to magnify the law and make it honorable. This means that God is committed to upholding and exalting His divine law, demonstrating its importance and worth. By magnifying the law, God intends to highlight its significance and bring honor to it in the eyes of His people. This verse underscores the importance of God's righteousness and the honor He bestows upon His law, revealing His character as a just and righteous God.