Who doesn’t want to be successful and prosperous? That’s the American dream, right? Well, the way to prosperity can be a difficult road – it was for our Lord.
Before talking about our Lord’s rejection and death for sin, the Prophet Isaiah gives us the end of the story. In Isaiah 52:13 he says, “Behold, My Servant will prosper, He will be high and lifted up, and greatly exalted.”
Now that’s a picture of Christ in His exalted state. He will be high and lifted up, and greatly exalted (or, exceedingly high). That’s what it will be like for Him after He pursues the difficult work of redemption – after He wins the victory over sin and Satan. It is a fore view of His success and ultimate prosperity.
This word “prosper” is the Hebrew verb sachal, which means “to act prudently; to have success.” The King James Version says, “…shall deal prudently.” The New International Version says, “…shall act wisely.” Actually it has the idea of a wise action that leads to success.
Some people inherit wealth and prosperity; and some people, like athletes and movie stars, fall into it easily. But this is referring to the person who works hard and plans carefully, and is very wise about what he does. Isaiah is giving us a description of the Servant of Jehovah – the Messiah. It is a description of Christ as He lived out His life. Everything He did was carefully calculated. He did always those things which pleased the Father. He didn’t shrink back from the hard part – dying for the sins of the world. And as a result, His prudent action brought Him success. “Behold, My Servant will prosper, He will be high and lifted up, and greatly exalted.”
Say – are you living wisely? Your future prosperity depends on it!