The conditions Isaiah confronted in his country were strikingly similar to those that surround us today. Violence, deceit, injustice, and self-destructive conduct abounded (Isa. 59:3-8). In looking for solutions to their problems, the people resembled a person without eyes, stumbling about in darkness (v.10).
Today the public is reacting to crime by demanding action. Some politicians advocate gun control; others urge all law-abiding citizens to have a gun and know how to use it. All the while we are spending billions to enlarge our prisons. The problem is that these efforts deal only with the symptoms; they don't cure society's illnesses.
Today, as in Isaiah's time, the real problem behind the ills of society is rebellion against the Lord. If people repent, He will show mercy. If they don't, God will bring judgment.
As Christian citizens, we should be promoting what God says is right and just, but we can do much more. Because we know that God is in control, we can proclaim the good news of His salvation. We may not be able to effect great changes in our society, but we can be God's instruments in delivering individuals from eternal destruction. — Herbert Vander Lugt
Continuing crises need more than concern--
Solutions are found in obedience to God;
Conditions will worsen unless people turn
From self-devised ways that are seriously flawed. --Hess
Instead of going with the crowd, we are to show the way.