Isaiah 40

The word for wilderness is “meedbar,” (מדבר). This word is spelled exactly the same in the Hebrew text as “he speaks, or I speak.” He speaks/I speak is written the same (מדבר) but pronounced differently “meh-dah-ber.” Ancient readers of the Hebrew Bible saw these words and linked them in their minds. Therefore, the wilderness must be the place where He speaks to you. The spectacular cliffs of Sede Boger in the south of Israel near Beersheba. It has been identified by some scholars with the Wilderness of Zin, which is mentioned in several places in Numbers and Deuteronomy. It is a popular destination for modern hikers and climbers. Photo by John Buckner

The Wilderness and the Voice of God 

May 6, 2026
“Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the Lord's hand double for all her...