In a place of concealment I spoke not, in a dark place of the earth; nor said I to the seed of Jacob, “Seek me simply for nothing, you people.” I am Jehovah, speaking what is righteous, telling what is upright.’” (Isaiah 45:18, 19)

He did not create the earth “simply for nothing.” Likewise, he does not ask his people, Israel, to seek him “simply for nothing.” Just as God’s purpose for the earth will be carried out, so God’s purpose for his chosen people will be carried out. In contrast with the obscure utterances of those who serve false gods, Jehovah’s words are openly spoken. His words are just, and they will come true. Those who serve him will not serve him in vain.

22. (a) Of what can the Jews exiled in Babylon be sure? (b) What assurance do Christians today have?

²² For God’s exiled people in Babylon, those words are an assurance that the Promised Land will not remain desolate. It will be reinhabited. And Jehovah’s promises to them come true. By extension, Isaiah’s words are an assurance to God’s people today that the earth will not become a desolate ruin​—charred by fire, as some believe, or destroyed by nuclear bombs, as others fear. God purposes that the earth will remain forever, robed in paradisaic beauty and populated by righteous inhabitants. (Psalm 37:11, 29; 115:16; Matthew 6:9, 10; Revelation 21:3, 4) Yes, as in Israel’s case, Jehovah’s words will prove reliable.