Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

The Prophet adds this sentence, to show the faithful whereunto they should have their refuge in such distresses; yea, even then when there seemed to be no hope of salvation: to wit, unto prayers; beseeching God that these promises might take effect when they should be in the greatest misery, and the enemies power at the highest to oppress them. We have need to observe this order diligently, for the Prophet hath no sooner propounded these promises unto them,¹ but he forthwith exhorts them unto prayer. Yea, suddenly breaking off his speech, he comes abruptly as it were unto invocation: for he saw how hard a thing it was for the Jews who were in such misery to overcome that fear wherewith they were almost overwhelmed. It is not to be doubted but the Lord hastens to perform the promises which he hath made to his children: yet for a while he defers to do it, that he might thereby exercise our patience. But if it come once to waiting, no constancy nor perseverance at all is to be found in us, for our hearts are by and by daunted and broken in sunder. Is it not needful then to have our recourse unto prayers? for thereby are our spirits cheered and fortified, when we cast our eye upon the Lord, by whose only direction we get out of all the agonies and anguishes which press us, yet let us patiently wait in assured hope for that which he hath promised: for our God is a faithful God,²