Dependable people (1–2). Although our Lord fits this description (Isa. 25:4), the prophet is speaking primarily about leaders in the kingdom. They should be both rocks and rivers, providing security and sufficiency. Rocks do not move or change, while rivers are ever moving and changing. Leaders must be both consistent and adaptable, combining the faithfulness of the rock with the fruitfulness of the river.
Wise people (3–8). Fools, scoundrels, and schemers abounded in Isaiah’s day and made the nation weak. But God wants people whose eyes, ears, and hearts are open to spiritual truth, people who are able to share that truth clearly with others.
Concerned people (9–15). Isaiah had a special burden for the careless women of the land (Isa. 3:16ff.; see also Amos 6:1ff.), for wives and mothers can have great influence for good or for evil. They were living at ease as God’s judgment was about to fall. Their happy homes were about to be destroyed, but they did not seem to care.
Peaceful people (16–20). The prophet ends on a happy note, describing the peace and prosperity of the future kingdom. There can be no lasting peace without righteousness, and Jesus Christ is our “King of righteousness” and “King of peace” (Heb. 7:1–3).
