Reading Isaiah 55 has left me with a simple word that best describes God’s faithful character: He is consistent! Granted — that word hasn’t been the first word to roll of my tongue when I’m thinking about faithfulness, but it may well be more in line with the biblical concept of faithfulness.

For instance, in verses 1-7, God is consistent in his call to all peoples. He urged us to “Call”, “Seek”, “turn”, and “forsake” (as well as other strong verbs). And it has been this way since he estabished his covenant, which he actually describes as “everlasting” and “faithful” in 55:3.

Additionally, as the rest of the chapter unfolds, God’s consistency is contrasted against man’s inconsistency. “His thoughts are not our thoughts and his ways are not our ways” (Is. 55:9), as well as the fact that his “word will never return empty” (Is. 55:11), are just two examples of how consistent his way and his word are — perfectly! Guarenteed! Impeccable!

The result? A future kingdom city forever faithful — consistent! — with God’s eternal purposes! That’s what verse 13 states when it says, “This [i.e., the new Jerusalem] will be for the Lord’s renown, for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed.” All that he has promised will be finally realized one day and it will forever remain that way. Now that’s consistency. That’s faithfulness. That’s God!