you will in that case find your exquisite delight in Jehovah, and I will make you ride upon the high places of the earth; and I will cause you to eat from the hereditary possession of Jacob your forefather, for the mouth of Jehovah itself has spoken it.”​—Isaiah 58:13, 14.

19. What rich blessings are in store for God’s people if they turn to keeping the Sabbath?

¹⁹ Still, if the Jews learn from the discipline and turn to honoring the Sabbath arrangement, rich blessings are in store. The good effects of true worship and respect for the Sabbath will spill over into all aspects of their lives. (Deuteronomy 28:1-13; Psalm 19:7-11) For example, Jehovah will make his people “ride upon the high places of the earth.” This expression signifies security and conquest of one’s enemies. Whoever controls the high places​—the hills and the mountains—​controls the land. (Deuteronomy 32:13; 33:29) At one time Israel obeyed Jehovah, and the nation enjoyed his protection and was respected, even feared, by other nations. (Joshua 2:9-11; 1 Kings 4:20, 21) If once again they turn to Jehovah in obedience, some of that former glory will be restored. Jehovah will grant his people a full share in “the hereditary possession of Jacob”​—the blessings promised through His covenant with their forefathers, especially the blessing of secure possession of the Promised Land.​—Psalm 105:8-11.

Spiritual Israel ‘Rides Upon Earth’s High Places’

21, 22. In what way has Jehovah made the Israel of God “ride upon the high places of the earth”?

²¹ Since their release from Babylonish captivity in 1919, anointed Christians have faithfully observed what was foreshadowed by the Sabbath. As a result, Jehovah has made them “ride upon the high places of the earth.” In what sense? Back in 1513 B.C.E., Jehovah made a covenant with Abraham’s descendants that if they were obedient, they would become a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. (Exodus 19:5, 6) Throughout the 40 years in the wilderness, Jehovah carried them safely, as an eagle carries its fledglings, and blessed them with abundant provisions. (Deuteronomy 32:10-12) The nation lacked faith, however, and finally lost out on all the privileges they could have had. In spite of that, Jehovah does have a kingdom of priests today. It is the spiritual Israel of God.​—Galatians 6:16; 1 Peter 2:9.

²² During “the time of the end,” this spiritual nation has done what ancient Israel failed to do. They have kept faith with Jehovah. (Daniel 8:17) As its members strictly observe Jehovah’s high standards and lofty ways, in a spiritual sense Jehovah raises them on high. (Proverbs 4:4, 5, 8; Revelation 11:12) Protected from the uncleanness surrounding them, they enjoy an elevated life-style, and rather than insisting on following their own ways, they find “exquisite delight in Jehovah” and in his Word. (Psalm 37:4) Jehovah has kept them spiritually secure in the face of determined opposition worldwide. Since 1919 their spiritual “land” has not been breached. (Isaiah 66:8) They continue to be a people for his lofty name, which they joyfully declare worldwide. (Deuteronomy 32:3; Acts 15:14) Moreover, an increasing number of meek ones from all nations now share with them in the grand privilege of being taught Jehovah’s ways and helped to walk in his paths.

23. How has Jehovah caused his anointed servants to “eat from the hereditary possession of Jacob”?

²³ Jehovah has caused his anointed servants to “eat from the hereditary possession of Jacob.” When Isaac blessed Jacob instead of Esau, the patriarch’s words foretold blessings for all who would exercise faith in the promised Seed of Abraham. (Genesis 27:27-29; Galatians 3:16, 17) Like Jacob​—and unlike Esau—​anointed Christians and their companions ‘appreciate sacred things,’ especially the spiritual food that God supplies in abundance. (Hebrews 12:16, 17; Matthew 4:4) This spiritual food​—which includes knowledge of what Jehovah is accomplishing through the promised Seed and that Seed’s associates—​is strengthening, invigorating, and vital for their spiritual life. Hence, it is crucial that they constantly take in spiritual nourishment by reading and meditating on God’s Word. (Psalm 1:1-3) It is imperative that they associate with fellow believers at Christian meetings. And it is essential that they uphold the high standards of pure worship as they joyfully share that nourishment with others.

24. How do true Christians today conduct themselves?

²⁴ While eagerly awaiting the fulfillment of Jehovah’s promises, may true Christians continue to repudiate hypocrisy of all kinds. Nourished by “the hereditary possession of Jacob,” may they continue to enjoy spiritual security upon “the high places of the earth.”