THE GOD WHO DWELLS IN ETERNITY

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Isaiah 57:15 stands out as one of the profound declarations of God’s nature and our relationship with Him. This verse says:

“For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”

This single verse presents us with a picture of God’s infinite majesty, His holiness, and His invitation for us to dwell with Him. It beckons us to explore who God is and what it means for us, as finite beings, to share in His eternal presence. Let’s unpack this beautiful passage, considering its implications for our spiritual walk and how it challenges us to understand both the greatness of God and His intimate care for His people.

Isaiah begins by describing God as the “High and Lofty One”, which points to His supreme authority and infinite greatness. In contrast to all earthly rulers and powers, God’s sovereignty is unparalleled. He is exalted above the heavens, beyond the reach of human comprehension.

Throughout Scripture, God’s exalted nature is highlighted as a reminder to believers that no power on earth can compare to Him. Psalm 97:9 echoes this truth:

“For thou, Lord, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods.”

This truth brings us both comfort and awe. In a world that often seems chaotic and out of control, knowing that God reigns from on high assures us that He is never overwhelmed by earthly events. He is the God above all. He sits on the throne that tells us He is still in control. Even if your life circumstances seem uncontrollable, remember, He is still in control. Isaiah 57:15 reminds us that the High and Lofty One oversees all. Our confidence in Him grows when we remember that His throne is established forever and He is the One sitting on it.

God is described as the One who “inhabited eternity”. This phrase expands our understanding of God’s relationship to time. Unlike humans, who experience life within the confines of time—moving from the past, through the present, and into the future—God exists outside of time.

God’s eternal nature means that He is not limited by the same constraints that define our existence. He sees the end from the beginning, which allows Him to work out His purposes with perfect timing. Isaiah 46:10 tells us:

“Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, my counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.”

And this is the reason why all things work together for our good (Rom. 8:28). God’s eternal perspective brings great comfort when we face seasons of uncertainty. His timing is never off. Though we might not understand His ways in the moment, we can trust that His eternal wisdom is always at work. He is present in all moments, not bound by the limitations that often cause us stress or worry.

Holiness is not merely one attribute of God—it is His very nature. When the verse declares that His name is Holy, it reveals that everything about God is pure, righteous and perfect. Holiness speaks of God’s moral perfection, His absolute separation from sin, and His complete righteousness.

The holiness of God should evoke reverence and awe within us. As humans, we are confronted with our own imperfections, but God calls us into His holiness. Leviticus 11:44 says:

“For I am the Lord your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy.”

This call to holiness is echoed in the New Testament. We are to reflect God’s holiness through our lives, not by our own effort but through the sanctifying work of His Spirit in us. God’s holiness is both awe-inspiring and relational, inviting us to be transformed into His likeness through the work of Christ.

Though God is exalted and holy, He does not dwell in isolation. He chooses to dwell with those who are “of a contrite and humble spirit”. This is the most profound aspect of this verse—God, who is high and lofty, dwells in those contrite and humble in spirit.

To be “contrite” is to be broken over sin, to have a heart that is repentant and aware of its need for grace. To be “humble” is to acknowledge our dependence on God, to recognize that we cannot stand before Him in our own strength.

God’s holiness could seem intimidating or distant, but His compassion invites us into a relationship based on humility and repentance. The heart that is humble and contrite is a heart that God welcomes. James 4:6 reminds us:

“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”

Through humility, we draw near to God, and He draws near to us. It is in our brokenness and repentance that we find the closest communion with the Holy One.

Throughout Scripture and in our own lives, we encounter moments that leave us in awe of God’s character and His majesty. These “Who is This God” moments reveal more of who He is, leaving us humbled and amazed.

1. Contemplating in Creations: When we look at the vastness of the universe or the complexity of even the smallest creatures, we see God’s wisdom and power. Isaiah 40:26 reminds us that He calls each star by name.

2. Experiencing Grace and Strength in Weakness: It is often in our moments of personal weakness that we encounter God’s grace and strength most profoundly. 2 Corinthians 12:9 says, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.“

3. Personal Encounters with His Love: Through moments of answered prayer, divine provision, or forgiveness, we come to know God’s personal care for us. Each encounter builds a deeper understanding of His love and faithfulness.

Finally, Isaiah 57:15 speaks of dwelling with God in eternity, but this is not just a future promise—it is a present reality. Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us that God has placed eternity in our hearts. We are designed for eternal communion with Him.

The invitation to dwell with God in eternity today is open to those who are humble and repentant. Eternity begins now for those who live in fellowship with Him, and we can experience His presence daily as we walk in humility and submission to His will.

Isaiah 57:15 offers both a revelation of God’s majesty and an invitation into His presence. The High and Lofty One, who inhabits eternity and whose name is Holy, desires to dwell with those who are humble and contrite in spirit. This truth calls us to:

Recognize God’s supreme authority and greatness.

Trust in His perfect timing and eternal perspective.

Pursue holiness through the transforming work of His Spirit.

Approach Him with humility, allowing Him to dwell in our hearts.

As we walk in humility and repentance, we experience the joy of dwelling with the One who transcends time, and we find our place in His eternal kingdom. Through His grace, we are invited to share in His holiness and dwell with Him forever.